marengo set to begin

Marengo set to begin operations
by ramunickel
After eight years of continuous exploration work, Marengo Mining Limited looks certain to go into full operations to mine molybdenum and copper at its Yandera Mine in the Usino/Bundi District of Madang Province.

This was revealed by company officials during a meeting they held with Usino/Bundi MP Anton Yagama over the weekend.

Marengo’s Managing Director Les Emery said an official decision is expected to be made before the year’s end as to whether the company will go ahead and establish a mine in the area.

However, Mr Emery said he was confident this would happen.

He said the development of the mine in this area, deemed one of the least developed, would mean big changes to the community.

Further to that there were social issues that would need to be addressed and managed.

He said the immediate benefits which would come with the establishment of the mine would include employment, improved medical and educational services and the general improvement to the people’s lifestyle.

Mr Emery added that it was the company’s desire to see these improvements taking place in the communities at Yandera and other parts of Usino/Bundi, and the province as a whole.

In this regard it was its intention to ensure it becomes a part of the family of the communities at Yandera and Upper Bundi.

This was because the company believed that by working with the people all issues of concern to the respective communities could be resolved amicably so that the project will be able to progress successfully.

He said as the project grows, more employees will be brought in from outside to work at the mine but assured the people of Yandera that Marengo would ensure local employment will be the number-one priority for the company.

Speaking also during the presentation of the Land Owner Association certificate to the Yandera Landowners Association over the weekend, he said the company continued to be “a straight shooter” on issues of concern to its stakeholders including the landowners — adding this was not about to change.

“The company wants to integrate itself into the community and not to be seen as a part-timer,” he said.

He added that this would forge a good working relationship between the company and all its stakeholders.