General News
26 June, 2024
Sophisticated debate needed, says former mining minister
Tony McGrady says his views have not changed, despite his party's stance.
Voters are ready for a debate on the benefits of going nuclear, says Tony McGrady.
Mr McGrady, who served as minister for mining and energy several times during his political career, said he would advocate for the rebirth of uranium mining if he sat in Queensland government cabinet today because of the economic benefits it would bring to the North West.
“If I was in cabinet today, I would not be a hypocrite – I wouldn’t be changing my views,” he said.
“My views remain that after ensuring the safeguards are in place, I think uranium is another industry for North West Queensland and we should be giving it strong consideration.
“Uranium mining is an industry that is sitting on our doorstep and we need jobs here. I am not afraid of uranium mining at all – but you need to get the public on side.”
Mr McGrady said an education campaign was required to dispel some of the myths around the industry.
“I think the opponents of nuclear energy will try to mount a fear campaign,” he said.
“Some of the things they say could be true, but given the amount of information that is out there today, I believe the average voter is a lot more sophisticated about this issue compared to what they might have been 10- 20 years ago.
“We need to let both sides of the argument put their cases out for public discussion and let the people decide.”