Maravi

Luanshya Copper Mines goes on recess

Luanshya Copper Mines goes on recess
By Darious Kapembwa
Thu 11 Nov. 2010, 03:59 CAT

LUANSHYA Copper Mines has gone on a one-and-half-month recess to facilitate rehabilitation of the hoisting system amidst fears of job losses among employees. Company public relations manager Sydney Chileya confirmed in an interview that the mine had been temporarily closed to pave way for the rehabilitation of the outdated hoisting system, which was built in the 1930s.

Chileya said the recess was initially scheduled for July/August 2010 but the equipment primary gear, secondary gear and rope did not get into the country on time.

However, some workers at the mine have received the news with apprehension, fearing that the Chinese owners would take advantage of installation of the new equipment to layoff workers and replace them with expatriate Chinese.

“We are hearing that these guys want to bring in their colleagues in the name of refurbishing the old system and lay off some staff in some departments. So unions will come in to intervene because everyone is aware even if they are saying it is normal, we do not trust them because this rumour of a layoff is quite strong,” one of the workers said.

But Chileya dismissed the fears and insisted that all workers would remain employees of the mine. He said the miners would continue to get their monthly salaries until the mine reopens in January.

“You see that is not true, this mine has four major components, underground operations – the system has been rehabilitated - the cable conveyor belt and the concentrator have all been done and what was remaining was the hoisting system commonly known as Ichikwepe which is obsolete and has been a challenge to move copper from underground to the surface,” Chileya said.

“All the equipment is in and we want to replace it so that we commence normal production by early January and the mine cannot remain operational when this system repair is underway. No one will lose employment. They will continue getting their salaries except for overtime.”

Chileya said underground developments drilling in readiness for blasting would continue during the recess.

Labels: JOBLOSSES, LUANSHYA COPPER MINES, SYDNEY CHILEYA

posted by MrK @ 6:12 PM