The production of platinum group metals in South Africa fell by 5.0 per cent in the first quarter of 2008.

According to figures released from Statistics SA, there was an 8.3 per cent decrease in total mining production in the quarter of which 5.0 per cent could be attributed to platinum group metals.

Power shortages caused by the failure of Eskom's power supply meant mines were forced to close in January causing large delays in production.

Sine then, periods of 'load shedding' have meant that mines are operating on reduced power output and have stuggled to meet operating targets, Stats SA said.

Continued rainy conditions have also prevented work in some mining shafts resulting in further delays.

Total production for the first quarter of 2008 decreased by 11.4 per cent when compared to the first quarter of 2007 while actual total mining production for March 2008 decreased by 17.2 per cent compared with March last year.



Source:

Weather and power problems knock mine output, 13/05/08
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