Had Lynas went through the proper channels to prove without a doubt that its rare earth refinery was safe, Himpunan Hijau chairperson Wong Tack would have no problems with it.
Speaking to reporters after being confirmed as DAP's candidate for the Bentong Parliamentary seat, Wong said the refinery was now operating because the company used "backdoor" methods to gain approval.
Wong, the most recognisable face in the anti-Lynas movement, said such methods had allowed the company to obtain a temporary operating licence (TOL) despite many questions, such as details of the waste disposal plans, raised by the public.
He said that the present BN administration was responsible for this.
"This is a battle between the people and the regime," said Wong, who once wanted the plant razed and later apologised for the remark.
NONEHe said this when asked to comment on PKR de facto Anwar Ibrahim's (right) promise to an Australian newspaper that Pakatan Rakyat would allow the plant to operate if it was proven safe by a fresh inquiry.
"The first thing (we should do) is cancel the (temporary operating) license and open the front door for Lynas to come in.
"If Lynas can go through proper processes and provide a detailed environment impact assessment which complied with our laws and procedures, why not?"
"If Lynas has the money to put in place a waste management process that is 100 percent safe to our land, if Lynas can invest to change Malaysia's climate and find a desert in this country, then come here and open your plant."
Guan Eng: Give them a fair chance
Anwar had recently told Sydney Morning Herald that a Pakatan administration would keep the plant shut until a new inquiry proves that it is safe.
"If Lynas can come out with a convincing argument that there is no risk to the people's safety and security, I will be the first to champion the plant there," said Anwar.
A year ago, Anwar had vowed that Pakatan would shut down the plant should the coalition take over Putrajaya.
Meanwhile, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said Lynas should be given a fair chance to explain themselves before a new government shuts its plant down.
“We must give a show cause letter (before closing down on Lynas). But in the letter, we will ask them (Lynas) why shouldn’t you be closed down?"
However, based on the current evidence, Lim said that Lynas' operations should be suspended.
LYC Price at posting:
60.0¢ Sentiment: None Disclosure: Held
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