Post Courier | May 24,2016
THE Mineral Resources Authority has been asked to relax its cease order for the operations of the Ramu nickel and cobalt mine in Madang. Mathew Dengua, the principal landowner of Kurumbukari mine area in the Bundi LLG made this call following the ongoing month long cessation of operations since investigations commenced into the tragic accident that killed one employee and injured others there.
Mr Denguo said the cease order issued on April 15 is discriminatory, too harsh and causes unnecessary financial burden to the already volatile nickel and cobalt developer and its financiers.
“The order is totally discriminatory and we the landowners ask MRA to relax the order by allowing two HPAL to operate after necessary rectification,” Mr Denguo said.
He said incidents and fatalities do happen in any industries and asked the Mines Inspectorate to understand the economic repercussion of the cease order, not only on the project but its negative ripple effects on those that depend on it.
“The contractors to Ramu NiCo project are affected now with cuts in employment. Procurements of goods and services in the province and country are slowing down. “Taxes by employees and other benefits to the Government are cut and this is an economic concern,” he said.
“This project brought a lot of benefits to us and we are supportive of it. “The current problem needs all parties to solve and will take some time but we ask for the operation of two HPAL to commence soon so benefits to the landowners keep flowing.
“We must ensure this project operates soon. It is very important for the economy, our bilateral relationship with China and importantly demonstrating to foreign investors our acceptable and flexible standards or legal requirements and procedures for future investors.
“MRA must demonstrate some common sense and wisdom. There are mines and industries throughout the world that killed hundreds. With Ramu NiCo, we must minimise any fatality to the best of our abilities,” Mr Denguo said.
Papua New Guinea Mine Watch 