The mining company says it has been engaged in negotiations and recently presented an offer that included significant increases in wages, benefits, living allowances, additional days off, and a meaningful signing bonus. Nevertheless, the union declined to respond to the latest proposal and initiated strike action, resulting in the suspension of operations at both the Cordero Mine and the El Bagre Gold Complex.

Geoff Hampson, Soma’s CEO, states, “Soma remains committed to continuing good faith negotiations and to reaching a fair and mutually beneficial resolution. Our most recent offer reflects our sincere intent to support our workforce, improve conditions, and ensure long-term stability for the operation and the community. While we are disappointed by the decision to strike, we respect the union’s rights and remain open and available to resume discussions at any time. We have proposed binding arbitration as a path forward, which was declined by the union.”

Soma Gold. Photo credit: Soma Gold/X.