Locals call on state to review mine closure deal

 LANDOWNERS of the Misima mine in Milne Bay have called on the state to review their mine closure and plan the memorandum of understanding affecting the closure.
The Eguma Misima special mining lease landowners’ entity requested that the state honour its miner closure commitment to conduct a socio-economic feasibility study.
Chairman and managing director Tauleia Mosibe claimed that after Misima Mines Ltd started operation, no socio-economic impact study has been conducted.
He said the standard of living had not improved despite the good things that the mine brought when it was in operation such as well-maintained roads, support in health, education, agriculture, transport, electricity and banking services. It upgraded the airport.
Mosibe said apart from the current monitoring of the environment rehabilitation, there had been no major economic development on the island to raise the standard of living for the people.
“People are struggling,” he said.
“Since 1989, the mine has earned more than K9.9 billion for the state. Yet after it ceased operations, we have run-down buildings, inconsistent power supply and landowner projects initiated have stopped.”