KGHM International has ‘selective hearing’ on Ajax project, opponents say of new footprint

NEWS/ AJAX — Plans by KGHM International to change the footprint for the proposed Ajax mine haven’t pacified at least two opponents.

Jill Calder of the Kamloops Physicians for a Healtyh Environment, and John Schleiermacher of the Kamloops Area Preservation Association said today the project continues to pose serious health and environmental issues.

“I feel like we have a bit of selective hearing going on,” Calder told CBC Daybreak Kamloops this morning (Thursday). “It’s not about cosmetics.” She said moving the tailings waste pile away from the highway will help the first visual impression of people driving into Kamloops but “this cosmetic change doesn’t change where the pit is located and the size of it.”

The location of the tailings pond in the Peterson Creek watershed is a concern, as is enforcement once the mine begins operating.

Calder said winds blow toward Kamloops from the south and southwest. “The winds don’t know about city boundaries.”

“Health first and wealth second,” said Calder.

Schleiermacher said the company’s claim today that it was making the changes to answer public concerns contradicts statements last August that the project was being re-evaluated and the environment assessment application delayed because of possible new ore deposits.

“We haven’t heard anything about that ore.”

He also said the tailings pond as now proposed will “ruin a nice valley there with wet tailings.” He added that “health impacts are paramount in this whole project.”

Calder said opponents don’t have confidence in the current process. “We have offered to speak to KGHM Ajax at a public forum and they have turned us down,” said Calder.

“I don’t think we’re being listened to at all,” Schleiermacher said.