CYANIDE SPILLS – Two releases in less than a month at Rapu Rapu

PHILIPPINES - Australian-based LAFAYETTE MINING closed its Rapu Rapu gold mine following two cyanide spills in less than a month. Although the discharges into the local watershed had "minimal environmental effects," said Lafayette, the company is being asked by authorities to draw up rehabilitation plans for the affected areas and compensate local villagers.

The Rapu Rapu mine poured its first gold bar on July 21, 2005. As gold production is phased out in favour of base metals, the sulphide plant is being commissioned. By June 2006, the plant is expected to operate at an annual rate of 2,500 tonnes of copper (plus precious metals) and 4,2000 tonnes of zinc contained in concentrates.

Canadian company TVI PACIFIC (www.TVIPacific.com) holds a 2.5% net smelter royalty in the project.