Barrick Pueblo Viejo says that the health problems suffered by residents in the gold mining area are the consequence of older pollution in the area. A team of experts from the leading medical association in the Dominican Republic (CMD) recently determined that mining pollution in the area was a major hazard to public health. Residents blame their health problems on exposure to the cyanide now being used by the company.
The mining company mentioned the historical environmental liabilities that affected the area for over 30 years before their arrival. “Despite the short duration of our production, there have been significant improvements in the conditions of the rivers in the vicinity of the project,” said the company.
It expressed interest in finding out the final results of the study carried out by the CMD and lab tests to confirm the health conditions of community residents and the true causes. Barrick invited the CMD to formally visit the mining company and its installations.
www.listin.com.do/la-republica/2013/8/28/290078/Barrick-rechaza-version-de-lideres-de-localidades