The Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) is happy with the conclusion of the recent Consultative Meeting in Wabag, as well as the landowners' demands that the Porgera mine be reopened as soon as feasible.
The re-opening of the mine, according to MRA Managing Director Jerry Garry, is contingent on the conclusion of various agreements between Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited, the State, and Barrick Niugini Limited (BNL), which are presently being negotiated by the State Negotiation Team.
The leaders of the Porgera mining project's 200 to 300 landowners who attended the conference expressed their wish to reopen the mines.
According to the MRA, Kumul Minerals Holdings must apply for Registration of the Dealing and legal transfer of interests in Special Mining Lease 11 to BNL and a new project company with Mineral Resources Enga and Landowners at the conclusion of either the Shareholders Agreement or the Commencement Agreement.
He added the Mining Minister's mining advisory committee will decide on the transfer to allow the new project business and its shareholders to manage the mine.
Furthermore, Garry stated that several legislative criteria for the issuance of SML under the Mining Act 1992, which have been delayed by the Mining (Amendment) Act 2020, must be met concurrently with the commercial talks.
MRA has established a set of minimal but important needs, and its staff will be on the ground to guarantee that all relevant consents and agreements are in place before the mine reopens.
Garry further noted that the Mining Act of 1992 imposes conditions on the Development Forum that must be met before the Mining Minister requests position papers, attendance, and involvement for the agreement.
He said: “Despite the informal acceptance of submission by several stakeholders, everyone will be formally called upon when the minimum requirements are satisfactorily met through the due processes.”
In the next months, the Mineral Resources Authority and the State Team will work diligently to ensure that all minimal criteria are satisfied.
The team will be implementing programs on-site in the Porgera mine region, and everyone is urged to participate in those activities that will help the mine reopen.
“We are aware of the differences among landowners over leadership issues but their consent and support to the government process is required in the best interest of the project and the nation in our endeavour to re-open the mine.
“And at the heights of securing a much better deal for landowners, local level government, the provincial government and the State.”
Reference:
Loop PNG (14 July 2021). “MRA Calls For Stakeholder Support”.
