Stalling Abbot Point ... The [legal] challenges are occurring on three fronts. The Townsville-based North Queensland Conservation Council is seeking a review in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal of federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt’s decision to approve sea dumping permits, the Mackay Conservation Group is seeking judicial review of dredging approvals in the Federal Court of Australia and the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators is challenging the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s issuing of permits, also in the federal court. Hearings, which some say could delay dredging for 12 or 18 months, are set to start from next month. Media reports last month suggest one of two remaining proponents at Abbot Point, Indian group Adani Mining, has warned its $16 billion Carmichael Mine project will not proceed if dredging cannot start next year. BHP Billiton has relinquished its right to develop one terminal, while Adani and another majority Indian group GVK Hancock have rights to each develop a coal terminal. Just when the port expansion can begin still hinges on where up to three million cubic metres of dredge spoil will be dumped at sea. townsvillebulletin.au/news/stalling-abbot-point/story-fnjfzs4b-1226994146188
Posted on: Mon, 21 Jul 2014 11:09:26 +0000
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