K92 Mining Inc (KNTNF)

[Edge83]

September 27, 2017
BY JOAN BAILEY

Operations of K92 Mining in the Eastern Highlands Province have re-commenced following a month-long stand-off with landowners.
This follows the signing of a resolution by the company and the Bilimoia Interim Landowners Association (BILA) yesterday for more business spin-offs to be given locally.
Before more than 20 landowners, K92 mine chief executive officer John Lewins and BILA chairman Nenety Tesai signed the resolution to mark the reopening of K92 mine while waiting for the review of a memorandum of agreement next month.
Mr Lewis told landowners that the company is relieved an agreement has been reached to reopen the mine.
He said the step taken is the way forward and last month’s disruptive actions were lessons for contributing stakeholders from Mineral Resource Authority (MRA), Eastern Highlands Provincial Government (EHPG), K92 Mining Inc and BILA to take note.
“We understand that landowners should be given the first priorities in terms of employment opportunities and spin-offs business.
“Thus, the company has signed the resolution and we look forward to working with our stakeholders to ensure landowners get maximum benefits from the mine,” Mr Lewis said.
Mr Tesai apologised to the company on behalf of his people for the damages caused to the mine site, saying the situation will not eventuate if there is understanding and cooperation between mine partners.
Mr Tesai said their petitions and grievances must be addressed as landowners have agreed for operations to commence.
“I want commitments by MRA and Mining Minister to be fulfilled so landowners will not cause another tension.”
The meeting was attended by BILA and executives, MRA, EHPG, district administration, minister’s office and landowners.

http://postcourier.com.pg/deal-seals-k92-mine-re-opening/