Visit to Mine

The company isn't likely to get a meeting with Chavez to plead its case and will have to rely on Sanz to press for permission to go ahead with the mine, Thompson said. The minister requested a visit to Las Cristinas during a meeting with Crystallex's management three weeks ago, Thompson said.

``He's a tough, no-nonsense businessman who will make things happen one way or another,'' Thompson said. ``He's not the man who will sit on the file.''

Boss - In your next submission of questions to Thompson can you inquire whether a date has been set to tour the Las Cristinas Property with Sanz, and if not, what is the delay in scheduling the tour? Thankyou.