Licence this week, page-30

DCCG says National Nickel Project on track

The Democratic Coalition for Change Government (DCCG) stands to ensure that the right policy intentions will carry the National Nickel Project forward.

This is despite various sentiments raised in respect to the ongoing consultations with the Isabel Leaders and resources owners.

A statement from the Mines and Minerals Board has confirmed that they have deliberated on various applications over PL and ML for Takata, Jejevo, San Jorge and Siruka in Choiseul.

“The Ministry is informing all applicants on the status of their applications this week,” the statement reads.

The statement also highlighted that the Board has made its decision based on its intentions to review the current legislative frameworks and in accordance to its recently launched Mines and Minerals Policy.

With regards to the Siruka deposit – a report for Siruka deposits will be compiled in the coming weeks to put the national nickel project on scope.

“In the meantime, any political interferences is not expected as the Board is doing its job according to the law,” the statement, said.

In response to recent media publications in a statement from the Mines and Minerals Board stated that;
“Any reasons to believe that certain leaders and especially the former minister had been influencing the board in any way is incorrect and does not hold water.”

“In fact the former minister had received the resolutions done by the Isabel Tripod and had committed to ensure that due process and sound policy issues are addressed for the interest and betterment of the project.”

Former Minister Bradley Tovosia in his statement when receiving the resolutions confirmed Government support for the Isabel leaders and affirm that all stakeholders will be consulted to ensure that everyone is heard.

Meanwhile, the National Nickel Project Committee have also stated that they are unaware of any interferences made by the former minister in the progress of the project as alleged.

“The progress is fine. In the same, the appointment of the new minister also means there is still a lot to be done to set down the right footing for the Project.”

The government is clear on how it is going to carry out the project and calls for cooperation amongst the people as it implements according to national policies.

“A National Development Project has little space for political interferences but clear policy guidelines as relevant to its implementation.”

The DCCG continues to maintain its support to develop this project.

Ends

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