LANDOWNERS of the US$5.4 billion (K18.48bil) Wafi-Golpu gold and copper project in Morobe are calling on the Papua New Guinea Government to move forward with the project.
The landowners of the special mining lease 10, from Hengambu, Yanta and Babuaf represented by their presidents on Friday, said the project had been delayed for too long. Yanta landowners association president Victor Geactulu, Babuaf landowners association president Jack Raban and Hengambu landowners association president John Nema said the landowners of the SML 10 area wanted to see the project get off the ground.
“The Government, after that development forum, has to progress to the signing of the mine agreement for the operation to start at the mine site,” Nema said.
He said the multi-billion kina project when developed would boost the economy at a time when it was experiencing a slump.
“We call on the Government and the Morobe government and stakeholders to decide on an effective way forward for the immediate start of the mine,” he said.
Morobe government lawyer Ralph Saulep said issues regarding the development of Wafi-Golpu project were currently before the court.
“We will not hesitate to cite people for contempt if the situation warrants it,” he said.
He said all issues regarding the legality of the environmental permit issued last Dec 18 and the delay of mine, including the challenge to the issuance of the special mining lease were before the court.
Saulep said any person who believes that he or she had a standing could apply to the court to join as a party.
The National / Pacific Mining Watch
Next : Job : Senior Mining Engineer with Newcrest Mining Ltd