Bratislava, May 6 - The Slovakia's Environment Ministry has allowed geological research into uranium deposits without considering village development plans or public opinion, Green Party vice-chairman Peter Novacik said.

"If uranium mining is permitted, 360 Slovak villages and towns inhabited by a million people will be in danger," added Novacik. The Green Party recommends that the state should reject requests for research permits in the public interest.

"There are currently 12 geological research sites and one mining area that are close to populated towns, tourist facilities and natural landmarks in Slovakia," said Novacik. Mining would endanger public health and water resources, and could compel entrepreneurs to leave the affected area.

The Green Party criticises Slovak laws, which it claims are favourable towards foreign mining companies, and has asked for a new geological and mining law.

According to the party, the state shouldn't disregard public opinion in the areas concerned. "People have already voiced their disagreement with the mining of uranium in a petition, collecting 73,000 signatures. We want to reach the threshold of 100,000, as Slovakia's Parliament would be then obliged to deal with it," said party chairman Pavol Petrik.

The research areas in question are scattered throughout Slovakia: from Nove Mesto nad Vahom in western Slovakia to Zemplin in the east. The research areas cover a total of 300 square kilometres, with most of the research franchises owned by companies from Canada and Australia.

(TASR)

Illustration photo: The Greenpeace activists protest against uranium mining research near Sport and Hotel Centre JAHODNA in Kosice recreation zone, Slovakia, 2007. (TASR - Milan Kapusta)