Filimoni Vosarogo, Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, plans consultations with landowners in Vanua Levu and Namosi regarding the Mt Kasi Gold Mine and special prospecting license disputes. The aim is to address local concerns and maintain open dialogue, despite opposition to the current mining contractor and license renewal.
Filimoni Vosarogo, the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, has indicated forthcoming consultations with landowners in Vanua Levu and Namosi, scheduled to take place before the end of this month. The discussions will focus on unresolved matters related to the government, the Mt Kasi Gold Mine, and the mataqali Nabukebuke of Namosi. In light of questions regarding the government’s decision to retain the current contractor at the Mt Kasi Gold Mine despite local opposition, Mr. Vosarogo reaffirmed the government’s stance while highlighting the necessity of dialogue to address these concerns. \n\nMr. Vosarogo stated: “The Government has made its decision, and before I have spoken to the landowners last year, I will be visiting them before the end of the month. This is to discuss and relay what process would follow the consultation. It’s an open consultative process.” He underscored the importance of engaging in discussions with the mataqali Nabukebuke of Namosi concerning the issuance of the special prospecting license (SPL), which has faced significant opposition from the landowning unit (LOU). \n\nHe emphasized, “Like I always say, these things need to be discussed and be part of a dialogue; they’ve been very strong in the opposition of the SPL being renewed. I’ve always taken the view that there should always be a platform where they need to talk, and I need to do that as well in this first month.” Mr. Vosarogo further articulated the role of ministers in these matters, stating the importance of listening to landowners’ concerns and providing clarity within the established regulatory framework, ultimately aiming to foster job creation and sustainable income opportunities.
The article addresses the upcoming consultations led by the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, which will engage landowners from Vanua Levu and Namosi. This initiative is primarily focused on the contentious relationship between the government and the local communities surrounding the Mt Kasi Gold Mine, where there have been conflicting opinions regarding the current contractor and the issuance of a special prospecting license. The government’s commitment to maintaining an open dialogue with landowners reflects an effort to mediate longstanding disputes and to explore the economic implications of mining activities.
In conclusion, Minister Filimoni Vosarogo’s forthcoming consultations with landowners in Vanua Levu and Namosi are indicative of the government’s commitment to open dialogue regarding issues involving the Mt Kasi Gold Mine and the special prospecting license. By addressing local concerns and reinforcing the importance of communication, the government aims to foster a collaborative environment that balances resource management with the interests of landowners, ensuring the generation of employment and sustainable income for the community.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
