Deputy Environment and Water Affairs Minister Chavdar Georgiev said that the Chelopech gold mining concession was unfavourable for Bulgaria.

Georgiev discussed the issue with members of the parliamentary anti-corruption committee. Canadian Dundee Precious Metals has been selected as concessionaire but the Environment and Water Affairs Ministry has been hindering its activities until now.

All suggested activities and investment should meet environmental requirements, Georgiev said.

Dundee chief operating officer Laurence Marsland said that the ministry was carrying out its environmental evaluation in a flawed manner.

When Dundee took over as concessionaire, Chelopech mine was in poor condition. The company met all European requirements concerning the offer, Marsland said.

According to Georgiev the concession fee is low and should be re-negotiated.