Minera Panama company calls for role in mine closure

Since the Supreme Court ruling of the unconstitutionality of Law 406 governing the mining contract came into effect, the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI) has not given space to Minera Panamá to discuss the execution of the environmental stabilization measures for the site says the company in a statement released Friday, December 22, in which it raised its willingness to participate in formal discussions regarding the planning for safe management of the site.

The company stressed that it is necessary to establish a “panel with multidisciplinary experts and international organizations” to prepare a plan that includes their participation, “given our deep experience and knowledge of the site.”

The statement reiterated the call that both the access road to the mine and The international port must be cleared “as a matter of urgency.”

On previous occasions, the mining company has said that due to closures by protesters they cannot access to bring equipment to treat the water. “We hold the relevant authorities responsible for the environmental consequences that may occur if critical supplies remain unable to access the mine.”

Finally, Cobre Panamá stated that it has ceased all copper concentrate production work. “We strictly comply with Panamanian legislation and abide by the ruling of the Supreme Court.”