Richard, In a recent email I mentioned that it was unclear to me whether Ortega's recent proclamations regarding a ban on open-pit mining were her opinion or a reflection of Chavez's position. You seemed to indicate that you also were uncertain in this regard. I would assume, since that statement by Ortega, that Kry has had the opportunity to discuss the issue with the CVG for clarification. Given that Sanz is the CVG President, surely they must know if this is now the official Vz position, as per Chavez, or just Ortega's position. Can you comment on whether the CVG and Sanz consider this to be Chavez's official position? RM -- The comments and position taken by the Minister (MinAmb) and certain MinAmb staff still appear to be isolated to that department. Existing Supreme Court Decisions, Presidential Decrees, MinAmb Resolutions, MIBAM Resolutions, NA Resolutions and current and historic projects all appear to support mining in this area and at Las Cristinas (without distinction between open pit and other methods). Regards, Richard