SENIOR representatives from Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) had constructive discussions with senior representatives of the Solomon Islands Government and its advisors recently.
This is to further consider the proposed transfer of Gold Ridge mine to the Solomon Islands Government announced by Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo, in August 2014, and to agree remedial action for the Tailings Storage Facility (TSF).
“Current water levels in the TSF remain approximately 1 metre below the spillway and 2 metres below the main TSF wall,” a statement from Gold Ridge said.
“Whilst there was agreement at the meeting that the water level in the TSF needed to be reduced before the wet season, GRML is yet to receive approval or direction from the SIG to be able to re-commence de-watering,” the statement added.
“Previously approved de-watering was suspended in mid-August due to continuing security incidents against GRML employees and property, which prevented GRML from safely continuing to de-water.
“The de-watering treatment plant was subsequently damaged by trespassers, and no de-watering has been possible since then.
“Results of recent water quality testing were considered at the meeting with the SIG, and show that arsenic levels in the TSF are well below the levels required by the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (ANZECC 2000).
“With the proposed dewatering, the concentration of arsenic would be diluted immediately upon release to levels below the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for drinking water.”
