The Ministries of Mines and Energy (MMERE) and Environment (MECDM) are jointly undertaking an independent environmental assessment of Gold Ridge Mining Limited’s (GRML) operations in Central Guadalcanal.
The assessment focuses on:
Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, Hon. Derrick Manu’ari, told Parliament last week that environmental oversight is a statutory requirement under the Environment Act 1998.
GRML is required to submit quarterly environmental and social performance reports for review by the Taskforce Secretariat.
“MECDM is reminded of its obligations under the law to take prompt action on all verified breaches,” Minister Manu’ari said.
Shareholder and governance concernsThe Minister also expressed concern that local shareholders have not received timely dividends or share certificates from Gold Ridge Community Investment Limited (GCIL). The Joint Taskforce has directed that:
Mining Agreement reviewMinister Manu’ari acknowledged delays in reviewing the Mining Agreement between GRML and the Solomon Islands Government. He clarified that:
Addressing unrest and illegal activityTo tackle the root causes of unrest and illegal mining, the Government and partners are:
“Our priority is to ensure that Gold Ridge operations comply with environmental standards, deliver fair benefits to landowners, and contribute to long-term economic and community development,” Minister Manu’ari said.