New ICMM Chairman and two new members added to council

 Rio Tinto chief executive Leigh Clifford has been appointed chairman of ICMM, succeeding Newmont CEO Wayne Murdy in the role. Leigh Clifford has served on the ICMM Council for three years. BHP Billiton CEO Chip Goodyear will be vice-chairman.

Leigh Clifford says, "ICMM has a vital role in raising the industry's sustainable development performance. Our members have a collective view that long-term business success is based on an integrated approach to economic, social and environmental management and effective corporate governance."

 In joining ICMM, CVRD CEO Roger Agnelli says, "CVRD is committed to bringing social and economic development to the communities where we work. By working together, I believe the world's leading mining and metals companies can make a real contribution to global sustainability."

 The other new entity on the ICMM council, Donald Lindsay, CEO of Teck Cominco, says, "Teck Cominco is committed to protecting the health and safety of our employees and the environment in the communities where we work. Through our membership of ICMM, we look forward to working with our fellow members to develop the tools and practices to meet our sustainable development commitments."

Neo Alliance Minerals appoints new director

Neo Alliance Minerals has appointed Charles Ming Kar Fook as a company director.

 Charles Ming Kar Fook has established himself as a renowned businessman in Hong Kong, Macau, Mainland China and North America. He has more than 40 years of experience in private equity investments, architectural

design and the financial industry, including significant involvement within the real estate, entertainment, gaming and mining sectors.

 Neo Alliance chairman and CEO Tommy Cheng said, "We are pleased with the appointment of Charles Ming as our new director.

 "With his experiences, credentials, and networks, we believe the appointment will increase our company profile substantially among the Canadian and Chinese investment community."