The Verlorenvallei Coalition has been formed.

Download/view English version:  Call to join the Verlorenvlei Coalition
Download/view Afrikaans version:  Sluit aan by die VK

A word from Garry Sheard, Vice-chairman of the new Coalition:

Hi to all

As you may know, in March / April 2009, Bongani Minerals (Pty) Ltd submitted an application to the Department of Mining for the right to build a large open-cast tungsten and molybdenum mine right in the middle of the Verlorenvallei, upstream from the Verlorenvlei, an internationally recognized Ramsar wetland.

That application is now in the scoping phase for a full Environmental Impact Assessment.

The scoping report was presented at a lively meeting at Karookop on 29th April 2009.  Thank you to all who attended, and for all the offers of help and encouragement.

Subsequent to that meeting, the Verlorenvallei Coalition has been formed!

Obviously the Coalition’s first task will be to mount a concerted resistance to the miners, but beyond that to promote interaction amongst the people, organizations and civic groups within the valley.  The “campaign” to date has highlighted the diverse and rich nature of the valley’s inhabitants.

Further on the VC later, but comments are welcome ………functions ………. newsletter………fund raising ………logo …….etc, etc!

An important date for the present is the 1st June 2009.  By this date, all objections, to issues raised in the Scoping Report compiled by Aubrey Withers, the environmental consultant appointed by Bongani Mines, or at the Karookop meeting, need to be submitted.  Objections should be objective and relate to your concerns regarding the mine or its potential impact on the valley and its people.

Objections should include your name and contact details and should be emailed directly to aubrey@withersenviro.co.za or fax to 021 883 2952.

We would appreciate a copy of your objection should you be happy to send us one.

I have attached two “petition” notices, one in English and one in Afrikaans.

Distribution of these notices to interested and affected parties will be appreciated.  It includes a request for contact details to allow you to be added to our list of interested parties.

Kind Regards

Garry Sheard

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