Landowners urged: Leave mineral exploration to investors

Mineral Resources Department technical adviser Dr Apete Soro has cautioned Rakiraki landowners against conducting their own mineral exploration, citing the high costs involved.

Speaking during the Western public consultations on the review of the Mining Act 1965 and Quarries Act 1939 at Rakiraki Market Hall on Wednesday, he encouraged landowners to allow overseas investors to undertake exploration.

“It is better to allow overseas investors to conduct mineral exploration on your land because they have the tools and the capital,” Dr Soro said.

“We have limited funds to carry out such activities. When we conduct exploration ourselves, there is no immediate financial return.”

He said mineral exploration could cost millions of dollars.

“I would discourage landowners from conducting exploration themselves. Allow investors to do the exploration because they have the resources. If minerals are found, you will benefit.”

Dr Soro was responding to questions about Yasawa landowners who intend to apply for an oil exploration licence in their waters.

He said the Petroleum (Exploration and Exploitation) Act 1978 already provides a legal framework.

“There is nothing stopping them from approaching the Department of Mineral Resources to begin the process,” he said.

“They will need to meet certain requirements as part of that process, but they can express their interest by visiting the department.”