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Message: Ven Govt Environmental Process

Ven Govt Environmental Process

posted on May 01, 2008 08:09AM

Ok guys, I have seen some of the things posted here concerning the Env Permit not being approved, and some opinion that might be a bit harsh. As someone who performs a similar function in California (yes, That third world country), something about the way the announcement was given is not on the up and up.

I do believe the Ven Govt (mostly Chavez) is trying very hard at making the standard of living for their people better. So, a fair assumption may be made that the permitting process, though not perfect and still in an infantile stage for the Govt, has certain fair and just procedures that are followed. Chavez is trying to make it that way with the house cleanings we have witnessed.

Our process, in which I work, though likely not the same is probably very similar. In essence, all permits are treated as equal by the worker bees, whether with a large mining outfit or a single miner. Now politics can play a huge role, but lets eliminate politics for a moment. Worker bees try their best to grant a permit, because usually the granting of a permit will better the overall quality of life, and work diligently with applicant to have the permit granted. That includes, when the permit cannot be granted, numerous meeting to discuss a list of things that need to be corrected and some direction on how to correct these so the permit may be granted. This process may have been eluded to by KRY management in some posts here. SO, it may or may not be a surprise to KRY. The truth always lies somewhere in between, the guy/gal who is my counterpart in Ven.

I know this is getting to be a long winded read. But, I should also point out that because someone is doing nice things for the neighborhood (hospitals, WWTP, housing etc.) it does not mean it guarantees a permit. With Chavez wanting his Govt to appear completely above board as possible, I would think he does not want to make anyone think the process is compromised by what could be definitely considered an overt bribe, to grant KRY a permit. A donation of building the hospital, housing and WWTP is just that, a Donation.

Finally, realize that the Guayana region comprises of nearly half of the country, but less than 5% of the total population, of which miners are a small portion of that population. Chavez really does not need this small portion of people (miners) to support him. However, it has been long known that Chavez is somewhat of an environmentalist and a very Patriotic country boy at heart, who wants a better quality of life for his people. Like him or hate him, granting a permit to scar the countryside, but help his people, is one of the tougher decisions for Chavez.

Just my two cents. With anymore bad news I may be able to buy another share of KRY with those two pennies. ;-) Hang in there.

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