[Greens-Media] Rudd sugar coating doesn't hide the toxic truth behind mining in Africa

[Torre, Giovanni (Sen S. Ludlam)]

Rudd sugar coating doesn't hide the toxic truth behind mining in Africa
Media release: Senator Scott Ludlam, Monday October 24th, 2011

The Foreign Minister should think twice before cheerleading for mining
operations in Africa, the Australian Greens warned today. 

Greens Senator Scott Ludlam said Kevin Rudd's recent glowing praise of
mining prospects in Africa was misguided, particularly with regards to
Paladin Energy. 

"In 2006 Paladin executive director John Borshoff outlined the rationale
underpinning the push by Australian uranium outfits in Africa by saying
'the Australians and Canadians have become over-sophisticated in their
environmental and social concerns over uranium mining, the future is in
Africa'.

"In other words, standards for protecting the environment, mine workers
and human health are too tough for Paladin in our own country, so
they've headed elsewhere.

"Australian investment in African countries should be encouraging the
spread of high workplace and environmental standards and safe, well-paid
local employment. Instead we have seen mining companies flock to Africa
in the hope they can cut corners on health, safety, wages and the
environment. The Foreign Minister needs to think more about what kind of
globalisation he believes in."


Media Contact: Giovanni Torre - 0417 174 302