Brazilian steelmaker Companhia Siderurgica Nacional (CSN), which owns mining subsidiary CSN Mineração, is reportedly not meeting recommendations from prosecutors to pay communities a monthly rent so they can leave risky areas, public prosecutors said this week.
Minas Gerais state prosecutors suggested CSN to pay a rent for communities near a dam that is seen by officials as risky. CSN replied saying the dam has a stability certificate, and is thus safe. Prosecutors said they would sue CSN over the case.
CSN Mineração had already unveiled plans to deactivate an iron ore dam at its Casa de Pedra mine, located in the city of Congonhas, Minas Gerais state. Prosecutors said it has indicated the CSN dam has shown “vulnerabilities.” Prosecutors argued Vale’s failing dam also had a stability certificate.
A media report by a government news agency said CSN has reportedly resumed negotiations with prosecutors over preventive measures at its dam located in the city of Congonhas.