Open Pit Mine in Panama

The Costa Rican Supreme Court has overturned a ruling that blocked construction of the country’s first major gold mine, declaring open-pit mining consistent with environmental law.

Costa Rican law previously banned open-pit mining, but outgoing president and Nobel Peace Prize-winner Oscar Arias overturned the ban upon taking office. He has declared the mine in question, Crucitas, in the country’s “national interest.” The incoming president, Laura Chinchilla, is expected to continue Arias’ policies.

Environmentalists and members of the opposition responded with a protest march on April 22, Earth Day.

The mine is owned and will be operated by the Canadian company Infinito Gold Ltd. A source reports to us that Infinito’s major shareholder is billionaire Ron Mannix, a member of Canada’s 14th richest family.