Independent auditor to review Cockburn Cement's Munster plant

26/4/02
The State Government has appointed an independent auditor to undertake an environmental audit and review of Cockburn Cement Ltd's Munster operations, Environment and Heritage Minister Dr Judy Edwards announced today.
Dr Edwards said Environmental Risk Solutions had been appointed after extensive consultations with various industry and community stakeholders regarding the plant's operations.
"In response to the ongoing environmental concerns of Cockburn and Kwinana community associations about the site, the Government has ordered an independent audit of the plant," she said.
"Environmental Risk Solutions will conduct a thorough audit of Cockburn Cement's environmental licence, as well as the Dust Improvement Action Plan and stack and environmental testing program.
"The independent consultant will also audit the stack and environmental testing program undertaken by the Cockburn Cement Community Environmental Improvement Group - with the full review likely to be completed by mid-June."
The consultants, Environmental Risk Solutions, specialise in environmental, risk and safety assessment and have undertaken a wide range of work for industry and Government agencies.
Local Cockburn MLA Fran Logan said the audit would be managed by the Department of Environmental Protection Kwinana-Peel Region.
"The Government has clearly responded to community concerns - and set in place an open and accountable process to audit the Cockburn Cement's operations," Mr Logan said.
"I look forward to completion of the full, independent review - and the potential answers it may uncover for the community."
The appointment of the independent auditor follows the State Government's establishment of a local stakeholder working group to oversee the review.
Minister's office: 9220 5050