DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

The Ministry of Energy and Mines has authorized three mining exploration permits within the Cordillera Septentrional, according to a preliminary report from the Environmental Commission of the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD). The findings, first published by the Listín Diario, reveal that the concessions encompass thousands of hectares across several communities in the northern region of the country.

For years, the mining companies had sought the exploration rights but these had been denied under past administrations given the concerns of impact on water availability, the experience with mining and the impact on the land, water sources and communities. The communities are concerned they may follow the destiny of the evicted communities and contaminated environment, especially in the gold-producing province of Sanchez Ramirez.

Pathway to exploitationA primary concern raised by the UASD commission and local stakeholders is the “Eighth Clause” found in the...