rights body steps into dune mining dispute 
4 September 2007

The SA Human Rights Commission (HRC) has stepped in to assess concerns about an Australian mining company's plans to excavate heavy minerals from coastal dunes of the Wild Coast, notes the Sunday Tribune.

This follows a recent meeting called by the King and Queen of Pondoland, Mpondombini and MaSobhuza Sigcau, to diffuse tensions that have arisen in the areas earmarked for mining – a 22km stretch of coastline that has untapped eco-tourism potential. Mineral Commodities Ltd stands accused of lying to its shareholders, and the Queen has warned that divisions over the project have escalated to the extent that people fear violence.

A delegation of traditional leaders led by the King and Queen will visit the proposed mining areas to hear the residents' concerns, and the HRC will observe the proceedings. The report says the general manager of the SA subsidiary of Minerals Commodities, Transworld Energy and Minerals, John Barnes, has declined to answer further queries about concerns voiced by affected residents.

Legalbrief Environmental, www.legalbrief.co.za