Mining firms trying to beat the gun?

Press, 13 May 1981, Page 16

Mining firms trying to beat the gun?

PA , 5 Mining companies are flooding the desk of the Secretary of Mines with applications so that they can be processed before any changes are made to the Mining Act, the Kaimai Action Group has told the Prime Minister (Mr Muldoon). The group was established early this year to counter the prospect of big mineral exploitation in the Kaimai Ranges, particularly near Katikati.

The group fears that widespread mining could endanger the water resources of the booming horticultural industry there. In a letter to Mr Muldoon the group has said that in the last few months 1200 applications for mining privileges have been filed. “The Secretary of Mines has said that his organisation is geared to processing a few applications each month, and that it is physically impossible for it to give the existing wave of applications the thorough attention each deserved,” the letter, which

is'signed by MrW. R. Van Leeuwen, said. , "■ "Our Contention is that this policy, if a situation of complete chaos can be considered a policy, is dangerous, unacceptable and in direct conflict with the New Zealand national interest.” The letter said that since January the group had been in touch regularly with the Minister of Energy (Mr Birch) to express its concern, and request a stay on all outstanding applications for mining privileges until the legislation had been amended and New Zealand interests protected.

The New Zealand national interest, the interests of the smaller New Zealand miners, or the welfare of the people living in potential mining areas could not be adequately protected where overseas mining companies laid claim to the bulk of mineral resources under faulty legislation. “It has become urgent for you, in your capacity as leader of our Government, to define and disclose the Government’s policy in regard to mining,” the letter said.