Mining Ministry Working to promote Synergies in Minerals Industry
Minister of State in the Ministry of Energy and Mining,
Laurence Broderick says the Ministry is working to
promote synergies among the various segments of the
minerals industry.
Mr. Broderick said this is necessary to build a strong,
integrated and profitable industry that contributes to
national sustainable development.
He said "clear areas of synergy between different segments of the minerals industry exist. These include promoting value chain progression throughout the industry. This means greater focus on the production of value-added products, which brings increased financial value to the companies and to the country."
The development of cost efficient energy solutions and energy efficient plants and machinery; facilitating arrangements between the industrial minerals sector and the bauxite and alumina operators for access to port loading and rail facilities; and ensuring that an increased content of local commodities (goods and services) is utilized by the bauxite and alumina sector were citing as areas for collaboration.
He said synergy could also be achieved in promoting international best practices in critical areas such as occupational health and safety, land rehabilitation, technical capability upgrading, improved productivity, industrial relations and human capital development.
Minister Broderick also commended Jamalco for the
conclusion of the expansion of its Residue Disposal
System (RDA 5). "This US$60 million ($5.34 billion)
project deserves high commendation on two levels. It was
completed below estimated cost and it was done entirely
by local contractors...the market downturn
notwithstanding, the company continues to achieve new
production records and improve its position on the
global cost curve."