HAWTHORN RESOURCES — PINJIN PASTORAL STATION
547. Hon ROBIN SCOTT to the minister
representing the Minister for Mines and Petroleum:
(1)
Can the minister explain why the Hawthorn Resources Ltd mining proposal dated
26 November 2015 was given approval, notwithstanding the close proximity of the
proposed mine within 100 to 200 metres of Pinjin station homestead and
associated infrastructure?
(2)
In approving that mining proposal, why did the department not adopt a proactive
regulation approach insisting that the mining proposal be amended or written
consent be obtained under section 20(5) of the Mining Act?
(3)
Can the minister explain the reasons why the Department of Mines, Industry
Regulation and Safety did not support and approve the incorporation of common
reserve 10041 into the Pinjin pastoral lease?
(4)
Can the minister explain what specific
actions DMIRS has taken to minimise damage to livestock by Hawthorn Resources'
heavy earthmoving equipment on miscellaneous licence 31/65, mining lease 31/78 and
mining lease 31/79?
Hon ALANNAH MacTIERNAN
replied:
I thank the member for the question.
The Minister for Mines and Petroleum has provided the following answer.
(1) The Hawthorn
Resources Ltd mining proposal was approved as it was assessed as being
compliant with the published guidelines and the requirements under the Mining
Act 1978.
(2) The former
Department of Mines and Petroleum was proactive in notifying Hawthorn Resources
Ltd of its requirements under section 20(5) of the Mining Act 1978.
(3) The former
Department of Mines and Petroleum did not support this because of its potential
impact upon the existing and future mining operations on the land.
(4) DMIRS has
undertaken numerous site inspections to monitor Hawthorn Resources Ltd's
compliance with the requirements of the Mining Act 1978.