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Supplementary EIS now available to public

News Release

www.premier.sa.gov.au

twitter.com/PremierMikeRann

 

Premier Mike Rann

Minister for Economic Development
Minister for Social Inclusion
Minister for the Arts
Minister for Sustainability and Climate Change

Friday, 13 May 2011

Premier Mike Rann welcomed the public release today of BHP Billiton’s Supplementary Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed Olympic Dam expansion project.

Mr Rann said today marked a major step forward in what would be the world’s biggest mine from a resource that could last well into next century and provide many thousands of jobs for South Australians.

“But before that can happen, the Supplementary EIS will undergo the most comprehensive and rigorous assessment ever undertaken in South Australia’s history,” Mr Rann said.

“The Government is committed to ensuring that every aspect of the project is subject to the most stringent environmental legislation and standards.”

The Supplementary EIS published today, is the company’s response to the almost 4200 government and public submissions that were made after the draft EIS was published in May 2009.

It provides additional information and answers key questions raised during the consultation process.

Among the most commonly raised issues in the submissions were the location of the proposed desalination plant in the Upper Spencer Gulf, matters relating to renewable energy and greenhouse emissions and the impact on the Great Artesian Basin.

“We now have BHP Billiton’s response to those concerns raised in the submissions and we have begun the process of examining whether their proposals meet the standards we require.

Mr Rann said the Government expected to make its decision on the adequacy of the Supplementary EIS before the end of the year.

“But we will not rush this through, we are committed to getting this right.”

The Government is also negotiating a revised indenture agreement with the company for the expanded operations, which will address issues including royalties and infrastructure.

“The benefits of the Olympic Dam development to the State’s economy and its communities will be both immense and long-term, that is why it is crucial that this assessment and negotiation process ensures the best outcomes for South Australia.”