The permitting of new mining projects has evolved into a highly complex process that must be carefully managed. Only by developing a thorough understanding of the issues involved and stakeholder interrelationships can successful strategies be developed that integrate the often competing demands of:_x000D_
regulatory requirements,_x000D_
commercial requirements,_x000D_
social/cultural needs, and_x000D_
technical issues. Properly implemented, this approach can result in:_x000D_
shortened approval timeframes,_x000D_
better project definition_x000D_
broad based community support, and_x000D_
favorably disposed government departments.