Uranium One keen to continue aquifer discussions
At a high-level meeting held in Mariental on 17 June, international scientists from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco), Dr Malcolm Siegel and Amie Legget said more information, namely hydrogeological and hydrogeochemical data, is needed to make a knowledgeable decision regarding a major in-situ revcovery (ISR) uranium mining project.Headspring Investments (HSI), which holds eight active exclusive exploration licenses (EPLs) and eight active environmental clearance certificates (ECCs) for the EPLs, fully concurs with the views of these scientists.
We also confirm that we are prepared to continue and complete exploration drilling, conduct comprehensive studies and provide the required information (data) referred to by the Unesco representatives.
The data can be obtained through work on a five-spot test (small pilot site of 15 by 15 metres that covers 0.00002% of the deposit), which is being built in compliance with all international safety standards and includes a strong monitoring system.
Research
An expert from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Dr Alexander Boytsov, invited by HSI, emphasised in his presentation that the target of the test is to determine the main technical parameters of the project and make a decision on its further development. Boytsov said groundwater research is a part of the uranium exploration stage before mining starts. Pilot plant experience will also help to conduct a comprehensive, detailed, and accurate water analysis as soon as possible to obtain data on the degree of natural contamination of water with uranium decay products (radionuclides) and then take measures to reduce risks and protect the health of those farmers who have boreholes in Auob 3 on the ore body.
Open
Headspring Investment stays absolutely open for any technical discussion, and we believe that decisions regarding the project will be taken based on scientific facts and not irrational fears and unfounded rumours. This point was also supported by the honourable governor of the Omaheke Region, Pijoo Nganate, as well as the environmental commissioner, Timotheus Mufeti. Headspring Investments appreciates the initiative from the honourable minister of agriculture, Calle Schlettwein, to create a platform for an open dialogue and facilitate a high-level discussion regarding uranium exploration in the Stampriet Water Basin.
- Statement issued by Uranium One