OREANDA-NEWS. March 20, 2012. Managing Director of Australian mining company Kentor Gold Ltd Mr. Simon Milroy concluded a visit to the Kyrgyz Republic which had been focused on the implementation of Kentor projects, in particular the Andash project. Mr Milroy said that one reason for his visit was to determine the official position of the authorities to development of the Andash field, reported the press-centre of IBC.

"The project seems to us quite significant for the development of Kyrgyzstan. The State has been offered a 20 percent share without obligation to invest in production. The local population has been offered a generous benefits package that includes, in addition to recruitment, direct financial support and preferential loans.

 In terms of ecology it is quite safe - cyanidation is not used here and there are no discharges of effluent into the environment. However, already for two years implementation of the strategic project is locked in dispute, with separate groups lobbying their own narrow interests. The parliamentary decree of last June, while being only a recommendation and having no legal force is having a great propaganda effect "- said the investor.

“It is important that the self interests of a few people do not stand in the way of the benefits that this project will bring to the local town, the province and the country.

“Following the visit, it is clear to me that the Government does support the development of the Mining Industry and the development of the Andash project, but for us it is important that the Government of the KR voices this position publicly, clearly and distinctly,” Simon Milroy said. “As for the community, we intend to continue the dialogue with the residents and allay fears that are based on a significant amount of misinformation that was circulated in the community.  We believe that in this case, the agreement will be

reached that will benefit all parties.

“I am confident that with the government clearly in support of the project we can avoid further conflict in the local community and commence a harmonious and productive relationship with the community.”

The development of Andash will provide 450 permanent jobs and it is expected that 350 of these will come from the local community.