...but the meta studies have "initiated". To initiate a program means to start or begin.

yes, and the meta studies could have initiated/started in February or March; the NR does not specify a time reference but you quickly assumed it "just started' to fit your negative slant :)

 The point of looking at the historical data was, according to ES, to determine if they could use it INSTEAD of drilling new holes to obtain a resource estimate

and that is exactly what NR says; a resource estimate will be done without the need of addtional drilling. The additional drilling is not for the resource estimate, but for further advancing the project to continue testing the mineral potential. Again you conveniently, falsely twist the NR to suit your negative narrative :)

I note your rebuttal failed  to comment on the lack of funds to complete all these studies this year. 

All ongoing studies this year are already accounted for money wise, as part of the already approved program for all the deposits. But why let the facts get in the way of your story; your hidden agenda comes out loud and clear in every post, you are not foolong anyone :)