A memo issued to all contractors and business houses, including service providers in Tabubil, stated that OTML has commenced the repatriation of it’s employees and families out of Tabubil as a measure to reduce the demand on food and power consumption.
The memo stated that the exercise started two weeks ago and by the end of this month, the company would have moved all families from the site as the mine would be closed until 2016. More than 200 police personnel will assist in the eviction exercise and protect company properties.
The company also stated that the employees were paid retainer payments to assist them during the duration of the lay-off until the company they are recalled early next year.
OTML management also requested that all contractors, business houses and service providers implement service directives without delay.
Among the directives to the contractors and business houses were;
That all families are removed from the site as soon as possible.
That each employee of the contractors contract their owners to ascertain how their contract would be affected and whether there will be a reduction in the number of employees required to remain on site.
That employees in non-critical roles or from whom work cannot be provided be moved out of Tabubil as soon as possible.
They plan now for how they would operate if OTML reduced to minimum manning level of about 200 people for an extended period of time, including the movement of their staff and closure and security of their premises.
The instruction also stated that no contractor employees or dependents that leaves site should be permitted to return until OTML advises.
The directive further stated that all schools in Tabubil will be closed, except to genuine residents of the mine village communities.
OTML further advised that the resumption of full operations after the dry weather is expected to be early 2016.
Source: Post Courier /PMW