The results of an independent review into the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in the McArthur River Mine (MRM) area has confirmed a low risk to human health posed by consumption of fish from the McArthur River system.

Ron Kelly, Chief Executive Officer, Department of Mines and Energy (DME), said that to ensure the best possible (independent) advice is available; DME along with the departments of Health and Primary Industry and Fisheries funded an independent review of all available data.

“Dedicated testing on the mine site, upstream and downstream of MRM, in the nearby marine environment and in neighbouring catchments as a control is undertaken as part of the current monitoring regime.

“Some results from sampling undertaken in 2012 and 2013, and highlighted in the 2014 Independent Monitors Report, showed elevated levels of lead in fish in a location within the mine lease,” said Mr Kelly.

Australian environmental consulting company, Hydrobiology, was engaged to undertake an independent review to assess the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in the McArthur River and recently provided its report to the Northern Territory Government.

After reviewing the findings of the report in consultation with the Department of Health, it was agreed that the Food Standards Australia and New Zealand national guidelines for safe fish consumption were still appropriate for this region.

The consultant and relevant government departments have been in Borroloola this week talking to community members about the results of the report.

Professor Dinesh Arya, Chief Health Officer, said the report confirms that the risk to human health posed by consumption of fish from the McArthur River system is considered to be low.

 “The Department of Health will continue to work with the community to provide health education concerning consumption of aquatic life.” said Professor Arya.

The advice provided by the Department of Health is based on national guidelines issued by Food Standards Australia and New Zealand which apply Australia wide.

The report identified several knowledge gaps where the sampling regime could be improved to provide a more focussed assessment of human health risk relating to consumption of aquatic life. 

The Department of Mines and Energy has written to the McArthur River Mine (MRM) to provide them with a copy of the report. DME has also instructed MRM to address the deficiencies in the monitoring program identified by the Independent Consultant.

MRM has until April 2016 to confirm a new monitoring regime in response to the recommendations contained in the report.

The Northern Territory Government continues to work with the operators at McArthur River Mine to ensure best practice at the site and work with the community to ensure public health and safety remain top priorities.

The Northern Territory Government has publically released the report and it is available from www.minerals.nt.gov.au

Media Contact –

Department of Mines and Energy – Sheena Dunne 0438 455 536

Department of Health – Lorraine Hook 0427 596 954