A former Launceston GP has joined protest activity in the Tarkine to raise awareness about the climate crisis and help prevent MMG from building a new tailings dam at its proposed site.
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Dr Scott Bell, a retired GP and fifth generation Tasmanian, arrived at the blockade on Tuesday morning and attempted to block access to the site by locking himself to a gate.
He sat alongside fellow protester, retired veterinarian Andrew Browne, from Victoria.
"I'm prepared to face the consequences of my actions because the science tells us that the relentless progression of habitat loss, species extinction, and environmental degradation means simply that we are running out of time," said Dr Bell said.
Bob Brown Foundation campaign manager Jenny Weber said that as of Monday, 50 protesters had been arrested in 42 days.
MMG has referred its proposal under environmental law, to be decided by July 23.
The company said it respects the right to peaceful protest.
"We understand people may have concerns, hence, why our investigations are necessary. A decision needs to be made based on facts, regulatory and environmental permitting processes, and consideration for all voices, not just one view point.
"The proposed site is currently the only viable option MMG has but we are actively looking at all possible options to extend the mine's life, and this includes investigating an alternative site, but at this time, we do not have a viable alternative."
