Newmont Nusa Tenggara operation returns to normal

Demonstrators who blocked the road access to PT Newmont Nusa Tenggara?s Batu Hijau mining site had been dispersed peacefully by authorities. The local authorities have told Newmont management that starting today the company can resume normal operation and workers are safe to return to work.

?We have cancelled the new employees? recruitment process and have agreed to study their complaints and alleged irregularities in the process as voiced by demonstrators,? said David Lilley, General Manager Operations of PT Newmont Nusa Tenggara.

?We will also review quota as well as positions allocation which will be given to each sub-districts and villages,? said David.

David said in a statement the company appreciated the local authorities who have reopened the road block as well as local communities who have showed their willingness to cooperate with the company so that NNT can resume operation.

Newmont Nusa Tenggara halted the operation at Batu Hijau mining site in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara province since August 3 for security reasons following a road-block staged by thousands of protesters. The protesters were disappointed and complaining about the company?s fresh recruitment process, alleging NNT of unfair quota distribution and preferential treatment for some candidates. (godang)