PREMIER Annastacia Palaszczuk announced a North West Minerals Province Taskforce earlier this week to improve local economy affected by low commodity prices.
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“My Government is keenly aware that the ongoing resource commodity price lows are making times tough for families and local businesses in resource communities, such as Mount Isa, and across the North West,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“Last week’s news about the North East Gas Interconnector pipeline coming to Queensland showed what a focused government could achieve in winning jobs and infrastructure.
“The taskforce will continue the focus, drawing together stakeholders across the North West to identify how we can all work together to plan a strategic way forward.”
Premier Palaszczuk said the starting point would be to work closely with industry to identify the particular issues affecting each mining company in the area as well as consider proposals in the North West Queensland Strategic Development Study.
The government will work with representatives of the Queensland Resources Council, resources companies, Mount Isa to Townsville Economic Zone, and Townsville Enterprise.
She said the taskforce will work closely with Mount Isa Mayor Tony McGrady.
Councillor McGrady said he applauded the Premier for giving due recognition to the special issues facing the State’s North West.
He did not foresee an overturn on the uranium ban brought on by the Labor Government, and while in the past made his pro-uranium mining views clear, said it was an election promise the government had to honour.
“I stand ready to assist and work closely with the State Government to implement any policies that lead to the betterment of the North West and in particular the mining sector,” Cr McGrady said.
“The Premier has shown that she understands the vital importance of our part of the State.”
State Member for Mount Isa Rob Katter supported the taskforce as an effort to lift a region that brings $2.8 billion to the Queensland economy through mining.
"Issues like energy prices need to be addressed and a conversation to recognise the north west energy zone must take place."
Mr Katter expected the taskforce to be productive.
"I will take on myself the responsibility to ensure there are actual outcomes here to stimulate the growth of mines and industry in the region," Mr Katter said.
