Emperor mine welcomes study on pollution

Emperor Tolukuma gold Mine’s, general manager Brad Sampson has welcomed a study to determine if the company’s gold mining activities are polluting the Angabanga River.
Acting Prime Minister Dr Puka Temu announced last Wednesday that K450,000 would be approved by cabinet later this month to fund the study and a report to be released by mid year.
Dr Temu said if the results confirmed that dumped mine tailings harmed humans, then the MoA signed with TGM in November would be reviewed where a tailings dam and compensation would be warranted.
Dr Temu said there were questions raised over a previous study conducted by Dr Sylvestor Kotapu for the Central Provincial Government.
Dr Kotapu found high levels of heavy metals in blood samples from villagers downstream from the mine.
“They will be susceptible to cancers and other prolonged illnesses, infertility and birth deformities,” he said.
But his findings were disputed by Emperor, which welcomed the Government’s approval of a new study.
“Dr Kotapu’s findings are totally contradictory to previous scientific findings. An independent comprehensive study will be very good to allay people’s fears. I don’t think there will be an issue,” Mr Sampson said.
Central Governor Alphonse Moroi however had declined to sign despite assurances that the MOA would be revised if the forthcoming study showed high levels of pollution.
He said two previous have proved the high levels of heavy lead in the river system.
He said welfare of the people was more important to him than monetary benefits.