Eastern Platinum (Eastplats) has reported a fall in second quarter production following labour disputes in South Africa.

The miner produced 20,528 platinum group metal ounces in the three months to the end of June, down from 25,387 oz in Q1.

It also marked a significant drop from the 30,820 oz mined in the second quarter of 2010.

The drop in output is less than expected, however, as Eastplats estimated a 7,000 oz fall as a result of illegal strike action at its Crocodile River Mine (CRM).

A two-year wage deal has been agreed with the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), which should protect production at the mine.

In addition, 155 workers have been suspended and resources consolidated into the Zandfontein operations, while JIC Mining has been engaged to restore full production in the third quarter of the year at the Maroelabult section.

Eastplasts said in a previous statement that it is "very pleased to have reached an agreement on wages, benefits and other production related issues and recognises the efforts of both CRM management and NUM leadership on the outcome achieved".

Sources:



Eastplats output hit by labour disputes (19/07/11)



UPDATE 1-Eastplats says ops resume at S.Africa mine (24/05/11)

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