Lion One Pays Out $150K Royalty to Landowners
“This is a tricky mine, and you know it takes a lot of people; we all must come together to make this work, it’s not just the company. It’s the landowners, the employees, and the Government, you know it’s everything,” Mr Hickey said.
Thursday 10 October 2024 | 17:19
From left: Lion One Metals Limited, chief operations officer (COO) Patrick Hickey, Marama ni Mataqali Nacokula and Yavusa Rarawaqa, Kelera Matalau and Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo at the presentation of the Lion One royalty. Photo: Waisea Nasokia
Good things happen to those who wait.
Marama ni Mataqali Nacokula and Yavusa Rarawaqa Kelera Matalau made those comments after she was presented their first royalty payment cheque of $150,605 from Lion One Limited.
Lion One Private Limited operates Tuvatu Mine on their land in Korobebe outside of Nadi town.
Related stories
While receiving the royalty in Nadi yesterday, Ms Matalau said that the event reminded her family of the power of collaboration and mutual respect.
“I am 76 today, I have lost my other two sisters, but finally I am able to witness this and see the benefit of this collaboration,” she said.
She added that they had shared sacrifice and were humbled to wait for this day.
“God has assisted us, but I am thankful that I had never dreamt this day to be present in this office and receive this that will assist our communities.
Ms Matalau said there was a tremendous potential the natural resources hold for fostering sustainable development and inclusive growth in the nation.
“We have been part of this project it has been one year. Also, our collective commitment to ensuring that the wealth generated from our natural resources directly benefits our people and our future,” she said.
“Let us remain committed to ensuring that these royalties serve the greatest good for our people and their future.”
Lion One Metals Limited, chief operations officer (COO) Patrick Hickey said Ms Matalau provided the company with relief on the royalty payout.
He said that without the royalty agreement, the mine may not have been in operation. Mr Hickey said Ms Matalau’s agreement and understanding of the long game made it work for them.
“This is a tricky mine, and you know it takes a lot of people; we all must come together to make this work, it’s not just the company. It’s the landowners, the employees, and the Government, you know it’s everything,” Mr Hickey said.
Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo said this signified the successful partnership between Government, industry, and communities.
“The presentation of this royalty payment is a testament to our commitment to you. We acknowledge and recognize the value of your land,” he said.
“Be reminded, your initial consent to the extraction has opened the doors of opportunities not only for the people of Mataqali Nacokula, Yavusa Rarawaqa, but has created a ripple effect for all Fijians to benefit from.”
Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj
