Alluvial mining policy ‘in focus’

By SHIRLEY MAULUDU
MINING Minister Johnson Tuke will ensure there is a policy for alluvial mining so that the interest of the people are a priority in regards to mining matters.
“I have directed the department (Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management) to work with the MRA (Mineral Resources Authority) to develop a policy for the alluvial mining in PNG,” he said.
“There is a huge potential in alluvial mining that directly serves our people. That potential has been tapped into so that we can properly regulate it, introduce safe practices and maximise the benefits.”
He said K300 million per annum was generated from alluvial mining.
“This government will bring about change for the benefit of the people. It will protect the interests of the investors and ensure there is transparency, accountability in the mining sector,” he said.
He said the mining sector was focused on generating revenue for the government.
Apart from the many activities that were identified by my ministry, for the first hundred days in office, I wish to bring to your attention a new policy initiative that I intend to deliver in my term as minister for mining.
Tuke said there were plans to have a gold bullion bank in the country.
“Also, there exists an intention to establish a gold bullion bank in PNG. This will bring a new development into the mining sector,” Tuke said.
“I am also aware of the fact that the developers of all our mines have existing international arrangements that should not be compromised.
“Therefore, I intend to strengthen the alluvial mining industry so that the vision to establish a gold bullion bank in PNG can be realised.
“This will be complimented by the development of the downstream processing policy that the Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management is developing.”