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Peter Downes, Department of Planning and Chairperson of the Working Party which is striving towards Stage II of the Residential Claims resolution was optimistic regarding the group’s progress on the matter.
“Although all the elements have not been sorted out, we are devising an easier mechanism for the purchase of available properties,” said Mr Downes.
“There is money available and we are trying to identify a person with the legal entity to quickly purchase these properties.
“I am optimistic that this mechanism will be in place within two weeks and an approach will be made on one property.”
Asked to comment on the Amendments to the Western Lands Act, Walgett Shire’s relinquishment of the Permissive Occupancy Area and Native Title, Mr Downes said, “The Shire’s decision is part of the over-plan to place the management of the Per Oc and acquired properties under the control of a Trust.
“The Native Title issue is still with Lands and Water Conservation lawyers and I believe that a century of mining and undertakings made by previous ministers since this matter started will assist with a favourable resolve.
“A change to the Western Lands Act for the grant of the said leases may not be necessary, but if so I believe it will be minimal,” he concluded.
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