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From 6 July 2006, a graphic version of the current edition is available at the Daily News Online web site.

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Speaking at the end of year media update in Orapa on Monday, he said there was a collaborative effort between members of the chamber of commerce to address the problem.

We are competing for skills and I think we are being successful, as we have a below five percent vacancy rate. I dont think our situation is any worse than other employers.

In fact Mr Sebetlela contented, We are doing better than other employers, explaining that great efforts on staff development as well as collaboration with other mining companies to mitigate the risk were ongoing.

Other problems bedeviling the diamond mines on the production front, he said were shortage and high cost of tyres, stating that other consumables such as fuel and electricity were emerging as major concerns in terms of prices and potential shortages.

It is therefore highly crucial to continue searching, identifying new suppliers and managing consumption.

However OLM have been through massive achievements, as the carat production was forecast to be on target this year.

Mr Sebetlela explained that the mines experienced fewer lost injuries in the 2007 production year, as compared to 2006.

A total of seven lost time injuries was recorded compared to nine in 2006, which represented a 25 percent reduction in the lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR), he said.

The improvement is attributed to our Botho, Botshelo and Boitshwaro behaviour based safety campaign, workplace risk assessments and thorough investigation of accidents and consequent corrective actions to prevent recurrence, He noted that the mines safety slogan of people safety first has been fully embraced by all emphasising that safety was a way of life at work, home and everywhere.

Mr. Sebetlela said the Orapa and Letlhakane Mines were audited and certified OHSAS 18001 compliant this year, describing the achievement as a major milestone in safety performance, as it was a highly coverted international standard.

The mines were also audited on the environmental management front, and re-certified ISO 14001 compliant by the Swiss Certification Board this year.

The ISO 14001 was a highly sought after environmental management standard in the world, he said, indicating that the award was a clear demonstration of the mines continued commitment to environmental protection and sustainability.

The mines also have a Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programme that empower the communities and improve the lives of Batswana in order to create a legacy of prosperity, sustainability and growth.

He said the highlight of the OLM CSI programme this year was the donation of P348 000 towards the establishment of a community psycho social support programme for the Boteti Sub District.

In addition P140 000 was donated to the Khama Rhino Sanctuary to re-fence the sanctuary. In all Mr Sebetlela said the mines are committed to spend P1.2 million in 2007 on the programme.

These initiatives are all meant to buttress the positive image of diamonds in our country and to live the Debswana value of show we care, He noted an unwavering commitment to invest in facilities that will improve the well being of the employees, their families and the community at large.

Mr Sebetlela touched on what he termed a very active HIV/AIDS peer education programme, whose educators did not only service the needs of their employees but were also active in the surrounding villages where they had carried out projects to assist home based care groups.

Through the programme, he said vegetable gardens have been created, as well as the donation of food and clothing, equipment, educational materials and the erection of shelters for the needy.

Mr Sebetlela commended the media for the support they have given Debswana and the country.

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