Two thousand jobs will be generated if the construction of the Namosi Copper Mine goes ahead.
This has been highlighted by the Country Manager of Namosi Joint Venture, Greg Morris as he opened the Namosi Provincial Council meeting in Navua today.
Morris stressed to the provincial council members that no decision has been made to develop a mine in Waisoi.
He said that Namosi Joint Venture needs to complete the project studies and present the Environmental Impact Assessment to the community and the government for approval prior to the final decision on the mine.
He assured the council members that no cyanide or mercury would be used to produce copper concentrate from the ore.
Morris said that they currently employ 80 to 120 people at the Waisoi camp with a salary and wages bill of $1.8 million a year.
He also revealed that NJV has spent over $520,000 on its Education Assistance Programme for students from Namosi and tikina Waidina wishing to pursue tertiary education.
Morris said that they also have community and infrastructure development programs.
Namosi Joint Venture also said that $200,000 dollars has been paid to the landowners this year in accordance with an agreed Compensation Protocol which is associated with the exploration program.
Morris added that should a mine be developed, these compensation payments would be fairly negotiated with the landowners.
Morris then presented a $5,000 cheque for the Namosi Day celebrations.
Story by: Vijay Narayan and Watisoni Butabua
