A parliamentary question regarding M-I Australia Pty Ltd operating without environmental approvals in Broome, and the subsequent investigation and approvals granted by the Department of Environment Regulation (DER). The Minister confirms the DER investigated and found operations adequate.

AnsweredQoN 1253Legislative Council
Asked
17 June 2014
Portfolio
Environment

QuestionView source ↗

With regard to activities being carried out at two locations in Broome, being Lot 30, No. 6 De Castilla Street and Lot E3 Port Drive, by M-I Australia Pty Ltd, I ask: (a) is the Minister aware that the company has for some months been operating without environmental approvals and licences; (b) has the Department of Environment Regulation (DER) advised the Department of Health, Broome Shire Council, Broome Port Authority, Yawuru Park Council and Roebuck Bay Working Group of M-I Australia's unlicensed activities, and that these have the potential to cause harm to the environment and human health; (c) will the Minister order an investigation into the operations of M-I Australia Pty Ltd in Broome including, but not limited to, their waste management processes; and (d) has DER investigated the drainage and containment measures at both of M-I Australia's Broome operational sites to ensure that environmental objectives for inland water quality, including that contained in aquifers, is being maintained?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
12 August 2014
Responded by
Minister for Mental Health representing the Minister for Environment
Response time
56 days
(a)-(d) The Department of Environment Regulation (DER) was notified of activities on the two locations in Broome and conducted site visits of both locations on 22 January 2014. The company made applications to DER for the relevant environmental approvals, which were issued on 22 May 2014, at which time I was also made aware of the issue.
DER's investigation determined that operations of both sites, including waste management processes, drainage and containment measures, were adequate and in line with standard practice for this type of activity. As the activities were not in breach of any standards the DER did not advise any third parties.

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