Member for Geraldton Kirrilee Warr MLA has urged the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation to keep their discussions surrounding dust in Geraldton transparent, to ensure the community can be confident in the solutions.
On Wednesday, reports emerged indicating DWER was engaging with the Mid West Port Authority and Karara Mining around the dust, after the investigation found magnetite was identified as a factor for dust pollution in Geraldton.
Ms Warr said the community deserved to be informed of any changes.
“The Department’s update is important because the community has for the most part been left in the dark about where the investigation is at,” she said.
“As we enter Geraldton’s windiest months, it’s important for a plan to be in place and for the community to be aware of what is happening.
“I urge the Department to be transparent with any changes to ensure the Geraldton community has confidence there will be a long-term solution.”
Ms Warr said questions raised from The Nationals WA forced the Environment Minister’s hand in finding a solution.
“Geraldton residents know this issue has been ongoing for years, but only now has the State Government decided to act,” she said.
“We raised this issue and asked questions in the Budget Estimates process, and only after then was an investigation conducted.
“The Cook Labor Government says it is listening and I hope the concerns of Geraldton will be heard and acted upon going forward.”