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The Cape Winemakers Guild vehemently opposes all prospecting and mining in the Cape winelands. Not only will the proposed mining activities destroy the UNESCO registered Bottelary Renosterbos Conservancy and the vineyards that attract large numbers of tourists to South Africa every year; it will also result in the loss of employment and income for a great many families working on the wine farms in these areas. It is unacceptable that a Government owned mining company can get permission from a Government department to prospect in highly sensitive and endangered plant biosphere. This is exactly what the wine industry is striving to protect. Pristine and unique terroir coupled with great winemaking skills are the usual credentials for great wines and mining in the winelands will damage the reputation of South African wines in the international market. The long term benefits of protecting the natural beauty of the winelands will far outweigh the short term advantages of mining. This action by a Government agency may cause damage to the reputation of well established international brands that have been built up over many years by top winemakers. Such wanton destruction of South African brand assets will expose the Government to substantial legal claims for damages. Johan Malan On behalf of the members of the Cape Winemakers Guild: Kevin Grant - Ataraxia
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