On 15th June 2024, Beacon Minerals Limited (Beacon), as Holder of Mineral Rights for Exploration and Evaluation Activities, organized a public consultation for three (3) Concession Areas, namely MEL2023-CA-ZB006, MEL2023-CA-ZB007and MEL2023-CA-ZB008 in Osso Administrative Post, Viqueque Municipality.
The objective of the public consultation was to continue disseminating information associated with Exploration and Evaluation Activities to the esteemed local authorities from Beacon and its Partner Murak Rai E.P as well as Autoridade Nacional dos Minerais, I.P (ANM, I.P), which was participated by a representative from President of Municipal Viqueque, Post Administrator of Osso, Chief PNTL of Osso Administrative Post and Veterans. The Local Authorities composed of Chiefs of Villages and the Council of Villages from ten (10) Villages, namely Nahareka, Ossu de Cima, Ossoroa, Wagia, Waibobo, Wabubu, Bui-ló, Liarika, Builale and Loihunu, played a crucial role in the consultation process.
During the public consultation, ANM shared information with local authorities on the legal framework stipulated in Timor-Leste's Constitution on Mineral Resources and elucidated ANM's roles and functions regarding the issuance of Mineral Rights, including the cycle of Mining Activities in accordance with the Mining Code.
Furthermore, the representative from Beacon presented their Exploration and Evaluation Activities Program and made a firm commitment to carry out a cultural ceremony prior to conducting their activities. This commitment, which respects and acknowledges the local customs, was well-received by the local authorities. Throughout the discussion, the local authorities agreed to ask for blessings from every Villages, and the cultural ceremony will be decided once Beacon identifies potential areas for drilling to assess resources of target Minerals.
In conclusion, the Council of Villages reiterated that the cultural activities should be carried out by local leaders and requested the participation of Viqueque youth in the activities. Beacon reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with local authorities to implement its work program and believed there would be community involvement based on the scale of mining activities.
