EAST New Britain Governor Michael Marum says collaboration between landowners and explorer Great Pacific Gold Corp (GPGC) for the Wild Dog project is encouraging.
During the commissioning of three houses built by the company in Rieit, Sinivit, recently, Marum said environmental issues from the previous Sinivit mine led to many disagreements.
He said that it was good to see GPGC reaching a mutual understanding with landowners on the potential benefits the project could bring to the people of Sinivit and the province.
Previous operations by another mining company had caused damage to the environment and posed risks to nearby communities.
Marum acknowledged the challenges faced by affected communities and encouraged landowners to raise their concerns with the appropriate authorities.
He told them that issues must be resolved through proper channels to prevent the spread of rumours that could damage reputations and disrupt peace.
“Bring all your reports to us and we will talk,” he said.
Marum said that one of his biggest worries was how to deal with the cyanide which had been removed and stored in a secure location.
It will disposed of by the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA).
Great Pacific Gold Corp vice-president Callum Spink thanked community leaders, particularly the Sinivit Landowners Association, for their cooperation.
“I look forward to finding something up there, and delivering the benefits that mining brings,” he said.
Spink added that the exploration exercise this year would cost K60 million.
Chairman of the Sinivit Landowners Association, David Joseph, welcomed the company on behalf of the eight sub-clans in Rieit and pledged continued support.
“We understand that our local knowledge alone is not enough, and we appreciate your team’s efforts,” he said.
