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NT approves uranium exploration

The Northern Territory Government has approved a uranium exploration application.

Cameco Australia and Paladin Energy Minerals submitted a plan for the exploration of the Angela uranium prospect in Central Australia.

The Minister for Resources Kon Vatskalis said approval of the exploration management plan will allow the company to begin drilling work at the site near Alice Springs.

“Approval of the management plan only allows the company to undertake drill work as part of the exploration process,” Vatskalis said.

“The exploration must be conducted in strict accordance with the management plan abiding by environmental controls including dust and water management strategies.

“It is important to note that this is not an approval to mine.”

Vatskalis said in order for the company to mine the site in the future, they would have to submit a separate application and undergo an assessment process.

“Any potential mine would have to prove no environmental or health hazards exist and pass the strictest Commonwealth and Northern Territory Government requirements and legislation,” he said.

“Strict requirements under seven individual Legislative Acts of the Commonwealth would have to be met – quite appropriately, a very high test indeed.”

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