Request to DMR for a copy of the application by Bongani Minerals (Pty) Ltd to renew their prospecting right (Berg River Municipality)

16-11-2015 (Christine Reddell): Received letter - letter simply indicated that no rights had been issued in that area, and that an application for tungsten was pending - "Bongani Minerals (Pty) Ltd (10197 PR) on the rem extent portion 6 and portions 1; 13 of the farm Namaquasfontein 76, portion 1 of the farm 297". I responded by writing to Mervin Petro (listed contact person for enquiries) - I explained that we were under the impression that a prospecting right had been granted and that a renewal application had been submitted - that is why we asked for a copy of both the prospecting right and the renewal application. The response received did not adequately deal with our PAIA request. 20-11-2015 (CR): Very unhelpful response from Mervin - "I believe we have responded to your request adequately according to my knowledge and our records. I am unable to respond to what newspaper articles alleged. For any further deliberations please contact our Mineral Laws Section (Mr Mwelase X1055)." Tried Mr Mwelase many times, finally got hold of him on 1-12-2015 - He said that he didn’t know the facts (this was the first time he was hearing about it), but that I must understand that his office needs to protect itself. They will provide access to information when a court orders them to, but can’t just release information just because someone sitting at head office says so. The person sitting at head office doesn’t know what the information looks like and the risks involved in releasing. He said – we can’t give out copies of prospecting works programmes, or financial ability, but we can sometimes give out technical information. He said that organisations like ours should give reasons why we want the information – even though the form doesn’t provide a space to do so. He said – the best place to get this information is the company itself, not through government. He said – you shouldn’t put government at risk like this. He was very firm and rude and completely horrible to deal with – he cut me off all the time. I was firm too, and it was clear by the end of the conversation that we were both really frustrated with each other. He said he would follow up with Mervin (which I doubt he will do). I asked if I could send him our request form and the decision letter from national – and he just said – “I’ll get it from Mervin”.