Mine production on hold

A FATALITY at St Barbara’s US$1.3 billion (K3.4 billion) Simberi mine in New Ireland has forced the gold explorer to temporarily cease production on the site.
In a statement, the Australian miner said the casualty involved a Papua New Guinean staffer, as local law enforcement bodies have launched a full investigation into the incident.
It also said mining activities had been halted and the premises had declared temporarily off-limits until the facilities received safety clearance to resume operation.
Managing director and chief executive officer Craig Jetson said it was “devastating news”.
“Our thoughts are with the employee’s family, friends and colleagues at Simberi,” he said.
“The safety and wellbeing of our employees is our highest priority.”
St Barbara was taken steps to provide care and support to the family of the worker, local community and all employees at the Simberi operations.
The Mineral Resources Authority was also notified about the incident.
Simberi is the northernmost island in the Tabar group of islands in New Ireland – 900 kilometers from Port Moresby.