QN Sales must put forward a real plan: Townsville

STATEMENT from Townsville Enterprise Chair Kevin Gill:

The continuing blame game and excuses put forward today are just not good enough.

QNI Resources Pty Ltd and QNI Metals Pty Ltd made the decision to take back control by appointing Queensland Nickel Sales and to revoke the authority of the Administrators.  QN Sales must therefore outline the actions it will be taking to employ personnel, obtain the necessary agreements and licences it needs and to secure ore supply to recommence operating.

It is time for QN Sales to step up and clearly explain to employees and the community what plans will be put in place for the future of the Yabulu nickel refinery.

"In addition, fast, decisive action by the Federal and State Governments, acting in a coordinated way, is what is needed now.

Together with the Chamber of Commerce and Region Councils Townsville Enterprise has presented both State and Federal Governments with projects that, with an injection of funds and more supportive policy settings, will create jobs, boost confidence and set the foundation for long term economic growth.

State Government

• Announce an immediate boost to funding for the Integrated Stadium and Entertainment Centre ($100M already committed to a $380M project)
• Expedite the mining lease for the Adani Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail project to start activity in the Galilee Basin
• Fast track the Ergon/Energex merger and relocation to Townsville
• Boost edutourism funding to take advantage of the development of a new export opportunity
• Support the development of PNG and Auckland flights to boost tourism, trade and commerce
• Fund the business case for the Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor

Federal Government

• Match funding with the State Government to complete the $380M Integrated  Stadium and Entertainment Centre
  • Base the headquarters of the $5B Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility in Townsville – the   business centre of Northern Australia
    • Fund road and rail projects to improve supply chains for agribusiness, cattle and mining industries
  • Announce that the  Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia will be headquartered in Townsville
  • Award funding from the $25M National Water Infrastructure Fund to Townsville Enterprise for feasibility studies into raising the Burdekin Dam and the new dam at Hells Gate

These projects are not new, Governments are well aware of their benefits and right now this region needs a shot in the arm of confidence and that will come, through action on these projects. - Kevin Gill.

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ENDS