Tuesday, November 13, 2012

LETTERS: Leave the uranium in ground


A VERY real problem with the mining of uranium lies in the threat to the well-being of north Queensland communities from the radioactive toxic waste. 
  
The Ben Lomond uranium mine for instance is in close proximity to the Burdekin Falls Dam, which supplies drinking water to thousands of people in the region. Any spillage could create dire consequences.

There would be further risks involved in ensuring the safe transportation of uranium to the ports, not to mention the environmental impact. The Great Barrier Reef is already suffering from coastal run-off, safeguards reduced with this Government's reference to transferring environmental policy to the State Development portfolio.

It is no wonder that north Queenslanders are protesting against the opening of this mine. Governments thus far have left well enough alone due to the associated risks.

THE only question that should be asked when considering whether to mine uranium should be, is there a safe method of storing the waste product. If the answer is no, and I have not read that science has answered that question, then surely public safety outweighs any economic arguments.

How many politicians would vote for mining of uranium if the waste was stored in their backyard? How quick we forget the devastation, and the continued fallout from Chernobyl.

David Morris, Bellmere

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/opinion/letters-leave-the-uranium-in-ground/story-e6frerc6-1226502573032