Leonora eyes radioactive dump
The Shire of Leonora is likely to put its hand up to host the Federal Government's radioactive waste management facility as it battles questions over its future.
Industry Minister Ian MacFarlane last week indicated the Commonwealth's intention to consider opening a nationwide volunteer process for landowners to nominate land for the facility.
Mr MacFarlane has previously stated the Government would offer a "substantial sum of money" to the successful party.
Shire of Leonora chief executive Jim Epis said income from the facility could help ensure the Shire's ongoing viability.
The question has been a burning one for the Shire after WA Premier Colin Barnett last week singled out Menzies and Leonora as shires which would not survive without local government amalgamation.
Mr Epis said an agenda item would go before the council at its October meeting.
"We'll be showing some interest in this issue, that's for sure," he said.
"We haven't defined an area (to host the site) but we know of several areas that will be more than suitable."
Groups have until November 10 to comment on the proposal to consider a nationwide process to identify suitable sites.
The Shire of Leonora would be one of several groups in the Goldfields interested in hosting the facility, which will house Australia's low and intermediate-level nuclear waste.
Those interested include the Kanpa community in the Ngaanyatjarra Lands.
Traditional owner Preston Thomas last week confirmed the group would be making its own submission to the Federal Government.
However, he said there were still matters to discuss with the NG Council before going ahead with the proposal.
Federal Member for O'Connor Rick Wilson said he was aware of several other groups in the electorate who may have an interest in the facility, but would not name them.
He said he would be giving his support to groups in his electorate who nominated for the site.
"We have forwarded Mr McFarlane's letter calling for expressions of interest to several interested parties," he said.
"We're here to support them in that process if they do choose to go down that route."
