BASIL COMMENDS MINING CHANGES

Deputy Opposition Leader Sam Basil says moves by the Mining ministry to increase royalty and equity shares of landowners and provincial governments from 2-point-5 percent is commendable.

Mr. Basil acknowledged and commended Minister Byron Chan on activities and reforms undertaken by his ministry, saying these growing concerns by mine-impacted locals and their environment, should be reflected in legislation and policies.

Basil says he wants District Administrations also included in the 5-percent royalty, because they are faced with dealing with mining issues like landowner disputes, infrastructure development and environmental concerns on a daily basis. 

He wants these new changes brought quickly to Parliament so that any developments are in line with the reforms. 

Bulolo District has seen gold mining operations since the 1920s, however services to locals, landowners and affected communities does not reflect the mining operations. 

The district hosts the Hidden Valley mine and the proposed Wafi-Golpu mine.