We’d love refinery back
Leaders push Palmer to take action needed to reopen plant
TOWNSVILLE’S civic leaders have called on Clive Palmer to do what he needs to do to reopen his Yabulu nickel refinery as the controversial businessman has hit back at liquidators to his former refinery manager Queensland Nickel Pty Ltd.
It follows revelations yesterday that the liquidators to Queensland Nickel have filed a claim in the Supreme Court alleging Mr Palmer has defamed them.
The refinery was shut in 2016 with the loss of 800 jobs and debts of $ 300 million but Mr Palmer is now saying he wants to reopen the plant but is being stymied.
Townsville- based federal MP Cathy O’Toole, who Mr Palmer recently threatened to sue for defamation, reiterated yesterday she would not be threatened or bullied by any- body. Ms O’Toole said the courts would decide if Mr Palmer had defamed the liquidators.
“We will see what comes of that and that’s as it should be,” Ms O’Toole said.
“In terms of Clive ( Palmer) and reopening the refinery, there are practical and reasonable steps ( that need to be taken) for the refinery to be reopened.
“I have always been very clear, if all of that can occur, of course, I would welcome all of the jobs ( that would provide) for the people of Townsville.” Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill, who has been sued for defamation by Mr Palmer and where an out- of- court settlement has been reached but not finalised, declined to comment on the liquidators’ claim.
But Cr Hill also supported a reopening of the refinery.
“Like everyone in the community I want someone to reopen the refinery and bring back the jobs that were lost when it was closed,” Cr Hill said.
“In terms of what his plans are, I’m sure Mr Palmer has a plan and he is working through it.
“At this point in time we want to see the refinery reopen and the jobs that were lost brought back into the community.”
Queensland Nickel liquidators John Park, Kelly- Anne Trenfield and Quentin Olde of FTI Consulting are seeking damages of $ 500,000 against both Mr Palmer and media consultant Andrew Crook.