Eldorado mining group confirms works resuming at Skouries

The Canadian mining group Eldorado Gold confirmed on Monday that it was resuming work at a controversial site in Skouries, Halkidiki, after the Environment Ministry approved a technical study for the project.

In a statement on its website, Eldorado Gold said works at the site were resuming following their suspension in January when the government had called for a review of the project.

Paul Wright, president of Eldorado, said he was "very pleased" with the approval and "greatly encouraged between the ongoing interaction between Hellas Gold and the ministry and its technical services," referring to the company's Greek subsidiary.

The project has stoked tension in the area with some residents and environmental activists opposing it while other residents and employees defend it.