MINARA said today total nickel output from its Murrin Murrin operation was 6,020 tonnes in the fourth quarter of 2007, down 27 per cent on the previous corresponding period. Total cobalt production for the quarter was 380 tonnes, down 38 per cent on the December quarter of 2006, said the company (ASX: MRE: quote).
Minara said it had completed a major shutdown during the quarter, which had seen about $100 million spent on capital and maintenance.
"As a result, Murrin Murrin is anticipating significant improvement in overall plant performance and flexibility in 2008," the miner said in a statement.
Minara said production for the quarter was lower than forecast due to worse than expected deterioration of the acid plant and maintenance issues including a severe electrical storm.
These issues have been resolved and, since the end of the quarter, production has been consistent, Minara said.
MRE Price at posting:
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