Poor choice of headline

Having been a long time reader of your publication, I am disappointed by how negative you can sometimes be about our industry.

In particular, I draw your attention to the headline above an article dealing with the release by Breakwater Resources of its 2002 annual financial results (T.N.M., March 24-30/03): “Languishing zinc sinks Breakwater.” While we acknowledge that our financial performance on 2002 was not sterling, it must be taken in context. I challenge anyone to find a zinc concentrate producer in the world today whose results are positive, taking into consideration the historically low zinc prices we have all had to endure over the past two years. To say that these low prices “sink” Breakwater may grab the attention of your readers, however, it is an inaccurate and inappropriate editorial comment on the part of your headline writer. If the article is read in its entirety, it is clear the company’s performance improved significantly (a positive swing of $18 million in cash flow when comparing 2001 with the 2002 performance) in a year when zinc prices were at record lows.

We and our 1,500 employees around the world are proud of our accomplishments. We are also proud of the mining industry. Your newspaper is dedicated to what I believe is one of the most important industries in the history of humankind. Perhaps a few articles on the positive impact of mining may be in order.

More accuracy and professionalism in preparing headlines would be appreciated.

Colin Benner

President and CEO

Breakwater Resources