Socio-economic impact assessment of the proposed closure of De Beers Namaqualand diamond mines by the year 2005 : main report

Bibliography: pages 65-67.In 1991 the Environmental Evaluation Unit (EEU) of the University of Cape Town was appointed by DBNM to undertake a socio-economic impact assessment of the proposed closure of DBNM by the year 2005. According to De Beers, the source of viable diamond ore is finite and unless technological advances or market fluctuations make the reserves economically viable, the mine has no option but to shut down its operations. This is anticipated to have major social and economic impacts on the region and DBNM. The emphasis is on regional impacts i.e. the Namaqualand Magisterial District. However, due to the concentration of employees originating from the Herschel District in the Transkei, special cognisance is taken of impacts likely to occur there. Therefore, the two main purposes of this report are to: * identify and evaluate the potential major socio-economic impacts arising out of the closure of De Beers Namaqualand Mines (DBNM), * determine mitigatory action which will reduce negative impacts and optimize positive impacts