Saturday, May 15, 2010

Cement factory sparks protest

Hundreds of people have held a protest rally near a cement factory in Perth's south, over concerns about corrosive dust and odour.

The Member for Cockburn, Fran Logan says more than 50 complaints have been lodged with the Department of Environment and Protection this year.

He says some people who live near the factory in Munster have had blood noses, headaches and breathing difficulties.

He has called for immediate action against the operators, Cockburn Cement, and accused the Environment Minister Donna Faragher of sitting on her hands.

Ms Faragher has rejected the claims.

"I am aware of those concerns that have been raised by the community and that is why the department is putting forward and proposing a much stricter licence," she said.

"They are also working with the Department of Health as well and that's the appropriate action."