Environmental Assessment
Volume A-6
Introduction
Consultation
Over sixty attendees took part in addition to the EA and promoter team. These
included the CTE members, ONE representatives, technical representatives from
government and NGOs, plus administrators and political representatives from a
large range of local and regional administrative structures. There was a high level
of participation by all working group attendees. Written reports were tabled in
the final plenary from all three groups and presentations and discussions held on
those reports.
6.5.1.2 Results
What follows is a summary of the workshop reports, which are provided in
Volume H, Appendix 5. Also, each group listed questions for the other two
groups, which were discussed, including at plenary. Minutes from the plenary
sessions were taken and additional issues and responses added to the EA issues
data base. The results of the working groups, plus the additional comments in
plenary, have been taken into account in the final preparation of the EA.
Working Group 1 – Water
The results of the water working group focused on the mine site and the tailings
facility, where most key water issues were believed to lie. Results emphasized
topics which would require more in-depth treatment in the EA.
Mine Site
•
The project description should clearly show how surface water flow to
the Torotorofotsy will be regulated to mimic natural seasonal flows at
baseline. The same level of detail is needed for other basins as well, plus
full details of how water quality limits will be met, especially total
suspended solids (TSS). The same level of explanation should cover
closure planning.
•
Consider obtaining details about downstream users of Mangoro water
and whether monitoring should occur during operations to check on lack
of differences to baseline flows that could be attributed to the project.
Tailings Facility
•
The project alternatives section should clarify design decisions made
with respect to water quantity and quality effects, including use or not of
liners and underground drains.
•
Good coverage is needed of predicted marine effects, including TSS and
other water quality parameters, taking into account local currents.
Ambatovy Project
44
January 2006
