General -
Provisions are recognized when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, when appropriate, the risks specific to the liability. When discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognized as a finance cost.
Provision for closure of mining units -
When the liability is initially recognized, the present value of the estimated costs is capitalized by increasing the carrying amount of the related mining assets (property, plant and equipment). Over time, the discounted liability is increased for the change in present value based on discounted rates that reflects current market assessments and the risks specify to the liability, in addition, the capitalized cost is depreciated and/or amortized based on the useful life of the asset. Any gain or loss resulting from the settlement of the obligation is recorded in the current results.
Changes in the estimated timing of rehabilitation or changes to the estimated future costs are dealt with prospectively by recognizing an adjustment to the rehabilitation liability and a corresponding adjustment to the related asset. Any reduction in the rehabilitation liability and, therefore, any deduction from the asset to which it relates, may not exceed the carrying amount of the asset. If it does, any excess over the carrying amount is taken immediately to the consolidated statements of profit or loss.
If the change in estimate results in an increase in the rehabilitation liability and, therefore, an addition to the carrying value of the asset, the Group considers whether this is an indication of impairment of the asset as a whole, and if so, tests for impairment, in accordance with IAS 36 "Impairment of Assets".
For closed mines, changes to estimated costs are recognized immediately in the consolidated statements of profit or loss.
