Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change Minister Yeo Bee Yin (photo, above) said she respects the criticism against the government over Putrajaya's decision to extend Lynas' operating licence for its rare earth processing plant in Gebeng, Kuantan for six months.
"We respect the freedom of speech of those who have aired their views about the government's decisions," she told journalists in Kampung Rinching Hilir, Hulu Langat this evening.
She was asked about the 500-strong protest in Kuantan last weekend to demonstrate against the government's decision on Lynas' licence.
The government on Aug 15 announced the extension to Lynas' licence but set a condition for it to come up with a construction and financing plant for a permanent deposit facility (PDF) to store its radioactive waste.
"The construction of the PDF must be expedited to minimise the risk from the water leach purification (WLP) stockpile that is now at more than 580,000 tonnes at the temporary residue storage facility which is exposed to major floods," said the Atomic Energy Licensing Board (AELB).
AELB also required Lynas to shift its "cracking and leaching" phase of operations, which produces the radioactive waste, to overseas within four years.
It also asked Lynas to terminate its efforts to commercialise those waste by diluting them and turning them into fertiliser and instructed for funds for this research to be channelled to the government as collateral.
The more stringent condition has not soothed anger as Harapan leaders had in the past promised to shut down the Lynas plant.
On a related matter, Yeo said the government has yet to receive a formal application from Lynas for the construction of the PDF.
Likewise, Pahang Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail (photo, above) said the statement government also has not received an application from Lynas on the matter.
“If there is a discussion or application, the priority of the state government will be the people’s safety. We are very clear on that part.
”..at the same time, this also involves the investment aspect, as Lynas has invested billions in the country. We will look into all aspects of this issue. We want to hear expert opinions. If experts say Lynas is safe, then we will focus (on that)," he had said. - Mkini
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