PR AND QUARRIES

Yet again, a member of the CMPA was presented in their local media in a highly negative light with the area’s major being recorded in the paper as stating, “When you live in a rural area the worst thing is when an extractive industry starts next door” (Wimmera Mail Times, 3/3/2004)

It was due to this report, which emphasised the silicosis issue, that the CMPA sought advice as to how to deal with this type of attach.

Firstly, the member in question invited the councillors of the said area to come out to the site of the proposed quarry. This was in order to actually explain what was involved and how the member in question would manage any reasonable concerns they had.

Secondly, the CMPA facilitated discussions to occur between the DPI and affected parties.

Finally, the CMPA sought assistance from its media liaison people who came back with the following comments:

• The area in question is growing and it is essential that local resources are made available to maintain accessible construction costs.
• That media attention should be focused on the highly regulated nature of the industry and the economic worth to the town in terms of resource and employment.
• Provide all concerned with consistent reinforcement and development of the detail of the site rehabilitation should be made at every opportunity
• That, if applicable, progressive rehabilitation is to occur and this must be explained
• If the needs of a particular party are highlighted by the media, a spokesperson should acknowledge this directly however be sure not to make any promises. It may include stating something along the lines of “We acknowledge and understand the concerns voiced and believe our application to address these with industry best practice operational parameters and adherence to Victoria’s stringent extractive industry legislation”
• Focus any comments and responses on the greater good of this application including the economic, employment and resource benefits.
• Admit that an extractive industry may cause some disturbance to neighbours but no more than from intensive modern farming operations.
• That the area’s residents should have access to attractively priced resources in the future

This particular case emphasised the silicosis issue. There is a very limited method of explaining this beyond stating, if appropriate, that the company will maintain the silica levels below the National Exposure Standards as set by the NOHSC. Before stating this, it may be worthwhile contracting a consultant to establish the present silica exposure levels.

As a general comment, it was recommended that in the case of the media contacting the company and the company is not prepared to answer questions directly, ask the media to outline the questions in writing so that the ‘appropriate’ person can address them. This buys time and ensures the company will not be misquoted.

If your company was represented in the wider media, please contact the CMPA (ensure you send through any articles). We are establishing a file for future reference.

Thanks to Tom McKenny for his assistance on this article

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