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(Sharecast News) - United States-focussed base and precious metals explorer and producer Phoenix Copper updated the market on its efforts to "build meaningful relationships" in the communities near the Empire Mine project in Idaho on Tuesday, announcing the formation of the 'Konnex Community Advisory Team' (KCAT).
The AIM-traded firm said KCAT would be composed of three representatives from Phoenix and Konnex Resources - Phoenix's 80%-owned operating subsidiary in Idaho - as well as 10 independent residents of Custer and Butte Counties, Idaho.
It said the team would meet at least four times each year, and would elect its own independent facilitator.
The company said it expected KCAT's roles to include facilitating communication between the company and the community to include a wider audience of stakeholders, and the formation of a 'Good Neighbor Agreement', modelled on similar arrangements which had worked elsewhere.
It would also form a grievance process designed to address concerns and complaints, and to be instrumental in resolving them, identify ways for the company to best benefit the community and local schools, including scholarship recipients, and compile a local vendor, contractor and supplier list so the firm could better support local businesses whenever possible.
"We believe it is critical to involve all of the residents and business owners in closest proximity to our Empire Mine project and have therefore invited applications for the KCAT from all residents of Custer and Butte Counties," said Catherine Evans, non-executive director and chair of the company's environmental, social and governance (ESG) and sustainability committee.
"The company is fortunate to have widespread local support, but we do not take this for granted and would like to foster an open dialogue with any individual or group who may have questions and concerns about the impact of our proposed future operations.
"The company has always fostered a culture of openness with investors and stakeholders, and the formation of the KCAT continues this tradition."
Evans said Phoenix was "looking forward" to working directly with community representatives to foster goodwill, and ensure a wider understanding of the company's operations.
"The first KCAT meeting is scheduled early this month."
At 1306 GMT, shares in Phoenix Copper were up 5.17% at 46.8p.
