Transcript
A September 2018 report into the mine's impact on the local community found 920 alleged violations including rape, sexual assault, drownings and shootings.
The mine operators, Barrick Niugini Limited, commissioned the report from an independent agency which found the open cut mine had been negatively impacting the local community over several years.
A community lobbyist McDiyan Robert Yapari says the report 'In Search of Justice' (link) shows a path for victims to have their concerns heard and receive financial compensation in line with international human rights principles.
But he says it has fallen on deaf ears.
He says talks with the company for urgent action appear to be at a stalemate, and the Porgera United Human Rights Advocacy Group is considering appealing internationally for redress.
"We will try to file law suits in Canada, with Barrick in Canada. But first of all, all we'll be doing is to cry out for help through the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights."
Late last year a separate lobby group began legal proceedings through PNG courts against the O'Neill government over the same mine.
PNG's prime minister Peter O'Neill told parliament last week the mining lease expires this August and he is seeking greater benefit sharing for the mine's stakeholders, which include the provincial government and local landowners.
Mr O'Neill's quoted in the Post Courier saying:
"I want to put it on record that this is not a foregone conclusion that because the operator is operating on that particular mine, that they have the automatic right to this renewal, should we not agree we have every right of option to find other means that our people can have a greater benefit for their mine and the resource that they own"
The September report outlines a comprehensive ten point action plan and time line for the mining company to address current harm, strengthen existing remedy mechanisms, and prevent future violations.
It stresses urgency on behalf of the victims and thoroughness in the mining company's response, independent of the outcome of the pending lease renewal.
The report itself states:
"The Porgera mine operates in one of the world's most challenging environments. The mine is in close proximity to residents, often without clear delineation between company and community property. Violent tribal conflicts are endemic to the region. Poverty levels are staggering. Illegal mining is becoming increasingly common and violent. Weak governance is pervasive."
Barrick admits the challenges associated with addressing the allegations of harm at Porgera are substantial and that significant barriers exist for those in local communities seeking redress.
It notes the social and technical complexity underpinning the resolution of grievances at Porgera.
A spokesperson says Barrick's working on its response to the report and hopes to start talks with community and government groups early this year.
This is Jenny Meyer.
