Member for the Mining and Pastoral Region Jacqui Boydell MLC has called for the Mining Legislation Amendment Bill 2015 to be referred to Parliamentary Committee to ensure it is properly scrutinised before it is passed through the Upper House.
Ms Boydell said referral to Committee was needed to afford prospectors and small miners the thorough consultation process they deserved.
Member for the Mining and Pastoral Region Jacqui Boydell MLC has called for the Mining Legislation Amendment Bill 2015 to be referred to Parliamentary Committee to ensure it is properly scrutinised before it is passed through the Upper House.
Ms Boydell said referral to Committee was needed to afford prospectors and small miners the thorough consultation process they deserved.
“Prospectors did not feel they have had an adequate response from the Minister’s office, and by referring the Bill to Committee, they would have the opportunity to have their concerns heard in the Parliament,” Ms Boydell said.
Nationals MPs Jacqui Boydell and Dave Grills met with prospectors and leaseholders in the Kalgoorlie earlier this week to discuss the legislation, where they heard concerns from the sector first-hand.
“There is a risk that the changes to the Mining Act could lead to an increased red-tape burden for prospectors and small miners,” Ms Boydell said.
“It’s the role of the Upper House to ensure that any legislation is subject to proper scrutiny, and that industry has the opportunity to air their concerns about any new legislation that could have an impact on how they operate their business.”
Ms Boydell said the economic, employment and social flow-on to communities in the Goldfields from any unfavourable outcomes resulting from the legislation may have serious consequences for regional communities.
“The Nationals WA believes referring this Bill to Parliamentary Committee would serve in the best interests of the community and all of industry.”