Costa Rica Rejects Canadian Miner Concession Appeal

COSTA RICA

Costa Rica rejects Canadian miner concession appeal

4th December 2006 SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, Dec. 4 (Reuters) - Costa Rica's Supreme Court has rejected an appeal by Canadian miner Vannessa Ventures Ltd against the cancellation of its gold mining concession, a court official said on Monday. The court ruled last week to uphold a 2001 decision annulling the concession for the 300-hectare mine located in the Las Crucitas area of northern Costa Rica, said court spokeswoman Sandra Castro. Among other things the court said the company had not properly submitted an environmental impact statement. Vannessa Ventures spokesman Jose Andres Soto said the firm was examining its options. "Our lawyers are reviewing the ruling and they will decide if an alternative exists to clarify points in which the courts are making statements that aren't true," said Soto. Costa Rica is known for its protection of the environment and strict environmental laws.