Tolukuma says 'made progress'

Tolukuma says 'made progress'

Postcourier (Papua New Guinea)

23 September 2004

Despite criticism from environment watch groups, Durban Roodepoort Deep (DRD) yesterday released its social responsibility report for its fully owned Tolukuma Gold Mine.

The report was compiled by academic Dr John Lake who has held senior roles in education in Australia and Papua New Guinea.

Presenting the report on Monday this week to Papua New Guinea Mining Minister Sam Akoitai, DRD Group divisional director (Australasia) Richard Johnson said it would improve the general understanding of the mine's activities and DRD's commitment to sustainability.

"Tolukuma has made tremendous progress over the past two years. Once a loss-making mine suffering from low staff morale and poor community relationships, Tolukuma now delivers consistent production and has vastly improved levels of communication with all of the parties interested in or affected by its operations," he said.

"We recognise that, in our work in the field of social responsibility, preparation of the mine for closure and for a sustainable future for local landowners and communities are important bases.

"Maintaining close and active relationships with stakeholders through effective communication is critical to the process. We hope that this report proves to be an effective communications medium and evidence of our clear intention to remain a committed and responsible member of the PNG mining community."