Deep-South Resources Inc (TSX-V:DSM) reported that the legal counsel of the Ministry of Mines and Energy of Namibia proceeded with the company’s last filing on November 17, 2021, regarding its Haib Copper project.
As reported in June 2021, the firm's renewal of licence EPL 3140 covering the Haib asset was denied by the Ministry. Deep-South is now contesting that decision in court.
The company said the filing did not include any documents supporting the decision of the minister to deny the renewal of the Haib licence. Thus, the Ministry has not provided any evidence supporting the decision of the minister.
At the High Court of Namibia hearing on November 25, 2021, in the absence of the judge, Deep-South said that its legal counsel and the legal counsel of the Ministry agreed to request that the court issue an order to approve the following schedule: Deep-South will file additional documents to support its original affidavit by December 15, 2021.
The company said the additional documents will include expert advice covering the exploration work carried out by Deep-South on the project and the work program proposed for the renewal of the Haib Copper licence. The documents will also include an update of the funds invested in the project development.
However, the court will be closed for annual recess between mid-December 2021 and mid-January 2022. The Ministry will have until February 14, 2022, to file its defense affidavit while Deep-South will have until February 28, 2022, to reply with its last affidavit.
And the court will hold another hearing on March 3, 2022, to define the further procedures with regards to the review of the decision of the Minister.
The company said it will provide regular updates in this regard and any other matter concerning this situation.
While recuperating Haib Copper mineral rights remains a top priority, Deep-South said its management continues to seek another copper project. Some projects have been identified and discussions with their owners are taking place.
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