An Australian exploration company working in the country says it prioritises discussions with landowners and local communities in the interest of keeping everyone abreast of on-going mineral exploration developments.
Magma Mines, a subsidiary of Dome Gold Mines, will continue advanced exploration within Kulukulu, home to the company’s most advanced project, ahead of its mineral development interests in Nadrau and Ono, Kadavu.
Country manager, Darren Grant, yesterday said “it is, and will always remain, an important priority for Magma Mines to discuss its plans at every local community.”
His comments followed a meeting between the company and landowners earlier this week, at Vunavutu Village, Sigatoka.
Vunavutu owns Koroua, known to certain traditional landowners as the lewe ni kato (a parting bridal gift) from an ancestral marriage that involved a woman of Nayawa.
Koroua, the nexus of Magma’s future mining plans, remained a contentious concern among some qoliqoli owners who utilise part of the demarcated area to cultivate cash crop farming.
“Based on the most likely plans to optimise the operations, mining of Koroua Island would take place approximately seven to 10 years after commissioning of the mine operations,” Mr Grant said.
“Neither Magma nor Dome have purchased any property.”
“We have not entered into any lease agreements with any landowners as yet.”
“But this would be expected assuming a mining lease is granted and mining plans were imminent.”
Mr Grant said the “regular” village meeting on Monday was convened to allow Magma the opportunity to present the current status of the definitive feasibility study (DFS), environmental impact assessment and future plans.
He said Magma was invited to present an update on its findings.
“Those present were able to hear from Magma on the progress and also ask questions highlighting the aspects of proposed mining that are very important to them,” Mr Grant said.
But turaga ni koro, Ilikena Korivuki, in a telephone call with Sun- Biz said Magma had no interest in Koroua.
Magma Mines confirmed that Mr Korivuki, among a number of community members from Vunavutu, and the other villages, were employed and trained to operate the sonic drill rig, and to undertake duties when Magma required labour to assist with drilling, and or other research activities.
“Aside from providing jobs this was considered a positive means of ensuring their fellow villagers were kept informed on exploration activities,” Mr Grant said.
“When next we require labour, we will again seek to employ people representing all the villages in the Sigatoka area.”
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