4 Nov 2005

New Caledonians rally against nickel project at Goro

6:06 pm on 4 November 2005

About 1000 people have joined a rally in New Caledonia held by the Kanak group, Rheebu Nuu, to protest against the Goro Nickel project in the territory's south.

The organisation says it condems the environmental effects of the project and says there is no traditional agreement between the Canadian company, Inco, and the people of New Caledonia.

A Kanak activist and co-organiser, Jacques Boengkih, says Rheebu Nuu delegates discussed their concerns with president Marie-Noelle Themereau.

Mr Boengkih says Rheebu Nuu is concerned about the Goro Nickel project.

"There are many plans from different directions. The main one is from the council for the management of natural resources. They are asking that the Goro Nickel project should be stopped, as long as Inco is not able to present any safe programme."

He says Rheebu Nuu wants the northern project to go ahead.