Vatukoula Gold Mines Ltd (VGML) will continue with mineral exploration works at Mount Kasi after Government stood by its initial decision in awarding the tender to the company.
Lands and Mineral Resources Minister Jone Usamate made the decision following another review of the applications, a result of objections raised by other bidders over the initial decision.
Government had earlier awarded the tender to VGML.
“The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources stands firm on the Mt Kasi Tender Assessment Committee’s (MKTAC) decision to award Vatukoula Gold Mines Ltd (VGML) the bid for mineral exploration and possible development of the Mount Kasi gold prospect located on Vanua Levu,” a release from the ministry stated.
In reviewing its initial decision as a result of some objections to its original decisions, Mr Usamate has noted that the assessment of all applicants was criteria based, objective and thorough and that the initial award of the tender was in order.
The landowners at Dawara Village in Cakaudrove refused to comment on the matter.
Mt Kasi first exported gold in 1932 which continued until 1946.
During periodic mining activity by different mining companies, the Mt Kasi prospect was able to produce 3546 kg of gold and 122kg of silver during the period from 1932 to 1998.
