Coromandel Watchdog of Hauraki has been invited to speak to the Fast Track Panel on the Waihi North Project application by Ocean Gold. This application is the first mining proposal to be considered under the new law.

“ We appreciate the panel recognising the 45 year history we have with the mining issue in our region, but 20 working days is all the time we have to write a submission of a huge complex application prepared by a wealthy company and their hired guns . The Fast Track process excludes so many voices and dictates narrow terms even if you are selected to be heard. It’s not fair on so many communities and groups who have deep concerns and questions about the Wharekirauponga and Waihi town mining projects.” Says Catherine Delahunty Chairperson of Watchdog.

“ The Panel itself has acknowledged the complexity of the application and the difficulties in accessing experts to inform them on the many aspects of the application. Oceana Gold have combined an extension of mining in Waihi town ( more open cast and underground mining) with a totally different project, the first underground mining in conservation forest in the Hauraki region. Whether you are the Fast Track Panel appointed to look at this application, or the iwi and community groups trying to raise issues about risks and consequences of gold mining in Wharekirauponga or Waihi, it’s hard to find the right experts and evidence in the short time given. It is clear that the Panel will not be hearing from experts on all the issues of concern.

“ The majority of relevant experts in ecology, toxic impacts, hydrology, economics, and social impacts, who are specialist consultants in this country, are already employed, associated or relying on contracts with the mining industry. We spent two years searching for these local experts to help us prepare for a court hearing which the Fast Track law eliminated. People were afraid to be associated with us in case it jeopardised future industry opportunities. What is even more worrying is that the Panel must assess a highly technical application when independent scientific baseline data on issues like water hydrology in the area does not exist .

Despite our best efforts only overseas experts have shown a willingness to work with us and there is barely time for them to read this enormous application if in fact they are available to help us immediately,

We will do our best to represent our community to the Panel, but everyone needs to understand that this is a David versus Goliath struggle with Oceana Gold. They have the resources and a government determined to facilitate their interests, we have community support and a very limited resources.

At least the Court processes allowed everyone to participate and not just the chosen few. In the past everyone could argue their case and cross examine company witnesses, The Fast Track is essentially unfair, elitist and unbalanced, we don’t even know if Panel recommendations can succeed in stopping the Minister saying “ yes” to anyone in a hard hat who wants to drill holes in the country for the benefit of foreign corporates.” Ms Delahunty said.

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