DomRep minister reaffirms commitment to responsible mining

Dominican Republic energy and mines minister Antonio Almonte underlined the government’s commitment to sustainable mining following protests over a planned tailings dam.

Almonte said President Luis Abinader remains committed to a responsible, transparent mining industry that benefits local communities.

His comments, at a mining forum organized by a local NGO, come as Barrick Gold was forced to defend its environmental record at Pueblo Viejo, Latin America’s top gold mine, following a violent protest over a planned tailings dam.

The dam is needed for Barrick to advance a US$1.3bn expansion at the asset, a 60:40 JV with Newmont, which will secure production into the 2040s.

Barrick is currently advancing community engagement over the planned tailings dam, for which authorities have yet to approve an environmental permit.

“If an environmental and social impact study determines that the a proposed mining operation does not comply with the required environmental standards, then the mining company will not operate,” Almonte said.

But the minister said responsible mining has a positive impact on the economy and the wellbeing of citizens.

“The general vision of [President] Luis Abinader regarding mining is to guarantee and strengthen transparency, taking environmental sustainability into account,” he added.

The President has made mining growth a key policy, with an overhaul of the country’s 1971 mining law currently being planned.

But projects are being held back by permitting delays and public concerns over potential environmental damage.