Clive Palmer says he will re-open his Queensland Nickel refinery and claims his companies have plenty of cash to do it.

The former Federal MP says QNI Resources has approved plans to reopen Townsville’s Yabulu Nickel Refinery, which he is accused of mismanaging.

In a statement, Mr Palmer says it’s time for all governments and the community to work together to help the refinery open in the shortest possible time, but didn’t say when it would be back in operation.

Ross Greenwood speaks with Ray Alexander, an employee at the refinery for 32 years, following the announcement.

Ray says it sounds like a pipe dream, but locals will welcome anything that brings new jobs.

“My initial reaction was ‘I’ll believe it when I see it’.

“Townsville’s struggling pretty ard at the moment, the last few years, so if they could open it up… Townsville would be very grateful.”

Click PLAY below for the full interview