KAP MP for Kennedy, Bob Katter, was deeply troubled to hear that the Mount Isa copper smelter could close due to needing an upgrade every four years costing up to $40m.
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Glencore Mount Isa Mines raised the possibility of shutting down the copper smelter in Mount Isa and the Townsville refinery during an interview with The North West Star in July.
Mr Katter said, "I was and always will be a copper gouger and prospector and I have to state the situation is not good.
"I have sought formally off MIM Glencore what is required to keep copper operations at their current levels and am seeking urgent discussions with the Council of Trade Unions in Mount Isa and Brisbane."
Mr Katter stressed that CopperString should be expedited and construction started immediately.
"I have met with the Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction, Minister Angus Taylor, and had three meetings with Josh Frydenberg on CopperString," he said.
"I've pointed out to the Ministers, if copper goes down so does Duchess and the giant fertilizer plant, creating serious problems for the Townsville zinc refinery."
With CopperString, Mr Katter, believes that the copper smelter will remain a viable asset for North West Qld and a worthwhile investment for the company.
This story has been updated since original publication.
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