Minister Vosarogo plans open consultations with landowners in Vanua Levu and Namosi by the end of the month to address issues concerning the Mt Kasi Gold Mine and the mataqali Nabukebuke’s concerns about the special prospecting license, aiming to foster dialogue and resolution.
Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Mr. Filimoni Vosarogo, has announced plans for open consultations with landowners in Vanua Levu and Namosi by the end of this month. These discussions are set to address complex issues related to the government’s dealings with the Mt Kasi Gold Mine and the concerns of the mataqali Nabukebuke in Namosi. Mr. Vosarogo emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining dialogue with the landowners, highlighting the importance of understanding their preferences and grievances.
When questioned regarding the government’s decision to retain the current contractor at Mt Kasi Gold Mine, despite the landowners’ preference for a different contractor, Mr. Vosarogo reaffirmed the government’s position. He stressed the intention to facilitate discussions aimed at resolving conflicts while ensuring transparency about the forthcoming consultation processes. He noted, “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,” signifying a structured approach to the issues at hand.
Moreover, Mr. Vosarogo indicated a parallel approach will be taken with the mataqali Nabukebuke regarding the contentious special prospecting license (SPL) that has faced significant opposition. He reiterated the necessity for an ongoing dialogue, emphasizing, “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.” The Minister’s ultimate aim is to foster understanding and provide the regulatory frameworks necessary for sustainable economic development in the region.
Opening channels for communication, he remarked, “Of course, there is opposition, but our role as ministers is to engage with them, listen to their fears, and provide answers to their fears and to allow the regulatory framework of how one gets through the process so that jobs can be generated, income can be earned, and sustained.”
The government of Fiji is navigating tensions surrounding the operations of the Mt Kasi Gold Mine, particularly the fulfillment of landowners’ demands and preferences. The mataqali Nabukebuke of Namosi has expressed strong opposition to certain licensing procedures, notably the renewal of the special prospecting license (SPL). This has created a pressing need for governmental engagement with the landowning units. Minister Vosarogo’s planned consultations are crucial for addressing these issues before upcoming decisions are finalized, emphasizing the importance of dialogue between the government and stakeholders.
Minister Vosarogo’s initiative to consult landowners reflects the government’s recognition of the importance of stakeholder engagement in addressing mining-related concerns. Through open communication, he seeks to navigate the delicate balance between governmental authority and local landowner interests, particularly in the matter of contractor choices and special prospecting licenses. This approach aims to enable sustainable growth while respecting the voices of those most affected by these developments.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
