The Botswana Mine Workers Union (BMWU) has abandoned plans to conduct an independent study to assess the viability of the BCL mine. BMWU president, Jack Tlhagale, said the reason behind this was mainly because of the enormous cost involved in conducting such an assessment.
“After seeking advice from various consultants we have learnt that the cost of conducting the study is very huge. For this reason we have decided to abandon the plans to conduct our own independent study,” said Tlhagale.
This announcement follows a statement made by BMWU officials in 2016 to undertake an independent assessment on the viability of the mines under the BCL Group.
However, Tlhagale said they would examine thoroughly the recommendations made by BCL liquidator, Nigel Dixon-Warren, before they come up with their own position as a union.
Meanwhile Warren revealed that BCL which was put under provisional liquidation last year October is not about to resume operation anytime soon.
Whilst admitting that BCL mines must be placed under final liquidation, Warren also revealed that three companies have expressed interest although no formal bids have been submitted.
Government through the Mineral Development Company Botswana (MDCB) applied for the provisional liquidation of BCL and the Tati Nickel mine last year October because they were deemed non-viable entities. The provisional liquidation which left the nation shell shocked left over 5 000 people jobless.