Inuit politicians balked Thursday at passing legislation that would ban uranium mining for three years in Nunatsiavut, the land settlement area in northern Labrador.
        
A bill calling for a three-year moratorium passed easily on first reading at a meeting Wednesday of the Nunatsiavut assembly in Hopedale.

The bill stalled, however, during second reading when some assembly members said they wanted to consult their constituents before a final vote.

"What remains to happen now is that the debate must still happen, and until the debate happens there is no decision," said Land and Resources Minister William Barbour.

A debate and vote is now on hold until April, which is causing consternation among the exploration companies that spent $70 million in Labrador last year.

Gerry O'Connell, spokesman for the Newfoundland and Labrador Chamber of Mineral Resources, said his group hopes the Inuit will decide against a moratorium.

"I think it's very important that they consider it carefully and as quickly as possible, make their decision, and provide a green light for exploration," he said. "Otherwise, this will put a chill on the whole exploration scene in that part of Labrador."

Nunatsiavut President Tony Andersen said the environmental side won Wednesday's vote on the first reading.

"We want to be absolutely certain that if we allow uranium mining that the companies have to clearly show to us that it can be done in a safe way that will have minor impact on our land," he said.

The Nunatsiavut assembly will meet again in April for debate and a final vote on the legislation.