Noranda clarifies they have not been mining in disputed Cockpit Country

After the uproar about supposed illegal mining in the Cockpit Country, a source in Noranda Jamaica Bauxite Partnership clarifies that they were not mining. However, they were drilling in the area to check feasibility of mining in future.

Noranda has a Special Exclusive Prospecting License (SEPL) which allows it to "enter and prospect on any land for any minerals". Exercising that right, the company has been drilling to depths of five metres to test the quantity and quality of ore present in the area. Based on the findings of the initial survey, the company will decide whether to approach the Jamaican Government for mining license.

It is rumored that Noranda was caught building a road at the disputed site near the Cockpit Country outer boundary. The road is expected to be some 700-feet long and is being built to access the ore deposits on the other side of the main road.

The company has released a statement in reply to the accusations saying, “Noranda Jamaica Bauxite Partners has not conducted mining operations outside of St Ann or outside of areas authorised by the Jamaica Bauxite Institute and the Commissioner of Mines”.

The release also stated that “Noranda has and continues to comply fully with its agreements with and authorisations from the Government of Jamaica, the Commissioner of Mines, and the JBI”.

The company is a joint venture between Noranda Bauxite Limited and the Jamaican government in a 49-51 percent partnership.