Controversial West Coast mineral sands mine Tormin is applying for a major extension of its mining rights, despite unresolved environmental issues and alleged unlawful practices within its current operational area. Despite reminders, it has ignored a comprehensive set of written questions from this writer about any actions it plans in response to a recent High Court case, where the mine's alleged environmental mismanagement was aired. The decision on whether to approve the mining extension and issue the required environmental approvals lies with the DMR in terms of the One Environmental System. This is what we predicted before the One Environmental System came into force, and what we and many others made detailed submissions to Parliament about. Under the One Environmental System, the national DEA's role has been severely reduced, although it can still act in some limited circumstances.

Source: The North Africa Journal May 08, 2017 08:37 UTC