Chan says big jump in exploration activities

 By SHIRLEY MAULUDU

THERE is a big jump in the number of exploration and renewal licences for mineral lands, Mining Minister Byron Chan (pictured) told parliament yesterday. 

Presenting the ministerial statement on the progress of the mining ministry, Chan said according to recent updated mapping data produced by Mineral Resources Authority (MRA), more than 80% of PNG landmass was taken up by mining activities.

“The majority of these activities include exploration licence applications and exploration licence renewal applications.

“This was a result of the launching of the geophysical and geochemical survey data sets during a conference in Toronto, Canada.

“This information coupled with a good fiscal policy, consistent government and political stability, institutional realignment and high metal prices has stimulated interest in the country, which saw a huge increase in licence applications over every mineral prospective land.

“The circumstances mentioned has attracted and renewed the interest of the majors in the mining industry such as Barrick, New Mont, Newcrest, Vale, BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and many more genuine reputable mining investors.” 

Chan said he had directed concerned bodies under the mining ministry to work on and see that applications were processed. 

“Under my directives in 2011, the Mining Advisory Council (MAC) has concentrated in attending to all the outstanding applications and to deal with new applications and dealings during that time”.

“Today, the burden of processing new licences has been reduced, but we are still seeing many more interest in the sector”. 

Meanwhile, State-Owned Enterprise Minister Ben Micah said issuance of licences to companies must be given thought and closer scrutiny as mining activities that were happening in the country were the cause of major environmental and social damage, including destruction done to Fly River, one of PNG’s major river system.

“I think we should really listen to the voice of the people who are speaking from their hearts and from hard experiences. 

“That this is an industry that if we need to control it, we must control it and no foreigner can dictate to us what we want to do.”