Response by Orion Mine Finance
...Lydian have been consistently constructive regarding any feedback it has received on all aspects of the Project and have always provided technical and science-based responses to all concerns raised.
As noted in our March 2018 letter to you, Orion and Osisko understand the risks associated with mining and work with their portfolio companies to offset ESG-related risks and maximize safe conditions. Lydian Armenia has committed to Orion and Osisko to comply with best practices throughout construction, operation and closure of its mine.
Orion and Osisko believe that Lydian Armenia’s management team has optimized the project’s design to meet best industry practice. The company has worked with reputable international and local scientific institutions, including Wardell Armstrong International, Global Resource Engineering, Treweek Environmental Consultants, Environmental Resource Management, LUC and RA NAS Institute of Botany, RA NAS Scientific Center of Zoology and Hydrology.
All the environmental risks that have been raised were identified, properly assessed and appropriate mitigation measures applied as part of the Project’s EIA and ESIA...
Lydian Armenia has followed all the requirements of the Armenian legislation and international best standards including the requirements of the IFC and EBRD. The company has held over 15 public hearings, 20 public consultations, and 200 meetings with an established community liaison process...