Employees at Crinum mine, near Emerald in Central Queensland, were today advised by BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) that the company would begin ramping down longwall development work as of this month.
Up to 100 jobs will be affected by the company’s decision to bring forward the early ramping down for the final longwall panel, which was initially planned to begin next year.
BMA says the decision was based on a range of factors including the analysis of the reserve depletion with the mine coming to the end of its reserve life.
BMA Asset President Lucas Dow said the ramp down was scheduled to be completed around April 2015.
“Apart from the development work ramping down, BMA will continue to operate the Crinum Mine, which employs over 400 people,” Mr Dow told the CQ News.
“It is well known that Gregory Crinum Mine is nearing the nearing the end of its reserve life, although no decision has been made on the future of the mine.”
Consultation with employees, contractors and their representatives would commence in the coming week.
“These decisions are never easy and we understand the impact the early ramp down of development at Crinum Mine will have on employees, their families and local communities,” he said.
“We will work with employees and contractors throughout the process and ensure everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We will also keep our community stakeholders informed throughout the process.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank employees and contractors who have worked in the development area of the Crinum Mine.”
Source: CQ News
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