MEDIA RELEASE 
20 March 2015

Conservation Council welcomes revised Nuke Inquiry Terms of Reference

The state’s peak environment body, the Conservation Council of SA, has welcomed the broadened scope of the SA Nuclear Royal Commission.

The Terms of Reference were released yesterday and now include, in response to significant public concern, an additional focus on:

- the environmental lessons learned from past South Australian extraction, milling and processing practices,

-the potential for adverse impacts on other export industries, such as our premium food and wine, tourism and international student markets, and   

- community health and safety.

“Hats off to the Premier for listening to many of the concerns raised during the initial public consultation process,” said Conservation SA Chief Executive, Craig Wilkins.

“While we still believe a truly open inquiry would also consider the option of reducing, and not just expanding, our state’s involvement in the nuclear fuel cycle, including uranium mining, the other changes are very welcome. 

“It just makes sense that we have a look at what we can learn from our past before we consider what to do in the future.

“Equally, any examination of the nuclear option must look at the merits of alternative energy sources, like our rich solar and wind resources, and the impact on valuable export markets that rely on our clean, green reputation.

“It is essential now that the team of people assembled to support the Commissioner is balanced and represents a range of views,” he said.

Release Ends