As noted, the Minister of MinAmb is obligated to issue a decision on the Company's permit appeal; however, if no decision is issued within 90 business days, (or by October 30, 2008), Venezuelan law allows the Company to elect to deem the appeal as being denied in order to avail itself of additional legal avenues. The Company is taking the necessary steps to protect its shareholder and stakeholder rights, including the preservation of rights to pursue further legal avenues both inside and outside of Venezuela.