Lessons from Mt Isa for Somersby sand mine

"The experience in Mt Isa should ring warning bells for Planning Minister Frank Sartor when considering whether to approve Somersby sand mine because its impact on the health of local children may well be substantial," Ms Rhiannon said.

"The bottom line is that unless Minister Sartor takes the potential health risks of the sand mine seriously his government may well face liability in decades to come.

"The mine will generate air, water and dust pollution and risk diseases in young lungs, such as silicosis.

"The Minister for the Central Coast and Education Minister John Della Bosca last year assured residents that dust and noise monitoring by the developer on school grounds will be sufficient to protect students from harm.

"Relying on mining companies to monitor and report on their environmental performance is obviously problematic.

"History has shown that the Environmental Protection Authority and NSW Health have shown little muscle when responding to complaints or imposing conditions on mining companies.

"A recent review by The Cancer Council Queensland of cases of lung cancer around quarries in the Redlands region found higher than average rates of cancer. A prominent cancer specialist responded by noting the harmful nature of exposure to silica dust.

"Sand mining creates hidden dangers, with pollutants lurking in the air and drinking water.

"The role of the Iemma government should be to protect and support residents where there is a risk their health will be impacted upon by mining.

"Minister Sartor should refuse to bow to the developer's request to allow this sand mine to go ahead, cheek to jowl with the Somersby Public School, " Ms Rhiannon said.

For more information: 9230 3551, 0427 861 568

[via Lee Rhiannon MLC Media Release Friday 23 May 2008 link]