[Greens-Media] BHP Billiton profits demand Caroona backdown

[Alison Orme]

Media Release - 

BHP Billiton profits demand Caroona backdown

Greens MP and mining spokesperson Lee Rhiannon said today's predictions that BHP Billiton is set to announce record profits of more than $17 billion demand the company drop its plans for any future long wall coal mining under the Liverpool Plains.

"With these kinds of profits, BHP Billiton must do the responsible thing and rule out any future plans to mine at Caroona near Gunnedah, even if the technology does become available," Ms Rhiannon said.

"Recently BHP Billiton said it would restrict its mining operations to ridge country because technology did not yet exist to mine under the floodplain. 

"With a predicted 14.8 percent rise in its 2007/2008 profits BHP Billiton should close the door to ever mining under the Liverpool Plains' rich agricultural land.

"BHP Billiton's responsibilities do not end with the profits of its directors and shareholders. 

"The company also has a responsibility to play a role in combating climate change and protecting the environment and local communities. 

"The long term impacts of mining are extremely serious.  

"Long wall coal mining is recognised for its capacity to destroy aquifers, land and rivers.

"Our children will pay for this destruction decades after profits have been posted and mining operations closed down," Ms Rhiannon said. 

For more information: 9230 3551, 0427 861 568


Alison Orme
Adviser, Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon (p/t Wed-Fri)
Macquarie St, Sydney 2000
Tel: +61-2-9230 3551 Fax: +61-2-9230 3550
Mobile: 0432 332 104
Email alison.orme at parliament.nsw.gov.au 
Web www.leerhiannon.org.au