Mining Magazine December 2016 | Page 7

This year , the World Initiative of Mining Lawyers launched it ’ s ‘ Model Mining Code ’ at the 2nd Annual WIOML conference in Paris . Mining Global speaks to Al Gourley , Chairman and Director of WIOML about how the Model Mining Code can change the industry

IT ’ S JUNE 2016 at the Chateau de Montvillargenne , France . Representatives from the World Initiative of Mining Lawyers ( WIOML ) have gathered for the second WIOML conference and annual meeting , designed to review changes around the world in the area of mining regulation and policy .
By the time the conference is over , it could stand as a significant date in the history of mining as the WIOML launches the Model Mining Code , a model to influence and guide mining countries in attracting and securing fair benefits from mineral exploitation within their borders .
WIOML is an organisation dedicated to resource policy review , to advance knowledge of mineral regulation worldwide through global participation of leading professionals , academics and policy makers to foster an informed understanding of legal issues related to mineral exploration and mining .
Naturally , such a wide range of voices from different governments and environments presents a challenge of establishing one singular cohesive vision .
“ The biggest challenge is trying to find harmony and agreement as to what is a sensible policy and what isn ’ t ,” says Al Gourley , Chairman and Director of WIOML . “ One has to be very open with the various voices of disagreement and perspectives as you try and put together a common position .”
This is where the WIOML conference comes in , to encourage debate and discussion and bring about a clear collective means for change . Established in 2014 , WIOML 2016 marks only the second annual
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