Scott Jordan: Venture Minerals commencement a travesty.

Clearing should be suspended until the company has committed to mining

Save the Tarkine has urged the Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt to intervene to prevent a travesty occurring at Riley Creek in the Tarkine.

While it has always been our view that this project should not proceed, the fact that the company has commenced clearing and site works while they are still considering whether to proceed with the controversial mine.

“This is a travesty that Venture Minerals would proceed with the destruction of this site within the Tarkine before they can even commit to the mine proceeding”, said Save the Tarkine Campaign Coordinator, Scott Jordan.

“This is wanton vandalism. This is destroying for no purpose.”

“The iron ore price is falling, and analysts are predicting further falls over the next six months. If Venture can’t make decisions in the current financial climate, then the Minister must act to suspend the environmental permits.”

“Clearing the site when the business case prevents the project proceeding makes no sense. I strongly suspect that this action is about saving the share price, not preparing a mine”.

“Even the most ardent supporters of this project must agree that Venture Minerals can’t be allowed to abuse their permit to manipulate the markets on a failing project”.
Scott Jordan, Campaign Coordinator, Save the Tarkine