COPPER: First Quantum moves Cobre Panama work in-house

PANAMA – Vancouver-based First Quantum Minerals has been taking a hard look at the Cobre Panama development since acquiring it in March 2013. The first decision the company made was to transform project management to a complete in-house, self-perform arrangement. Third party engineers and contractors will now be used only for identified specific tasks.

The change gives the company full control of all site development, and that is expected to increase flexibility and reduce risk. Sit accommodation, road access, communications and management are now fully functional.

The other major change that First Quantum will make is to the locations of key site infrastructure including the mill. The company says it has selected a more practical plant plant site that is easier to access and works better with the planned in-pit crushing system.

Further details from Cobre Panama will be released in Q1 2014. Meanwhile, see the website at First-Quantum.com.