Meridian Gold posts third quarter loss

NEW YORK, Oct 23 (Reuters) - Gold miner Meridian Gold Inc MDG.N MDG.N MNG.TO on Tuesday posted a third quarter loss, citing costs associated with its takeover offer from Yamana Gold Inc (YRI.TO: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) and the timing of metal sales.

The company posted a third quarter loss of $12.9 million, or a loss of 13 cents per share, compared to a profit of $5.7 million, or 6 cents per share, in the third quarter of 2006.

The company said third quarter earnings from operations were $21.8 million. Third quarter gold production increased by 5,300 ounces.

Yamana is finalizing its takeover of Meridian and Northern Orion Resources Inc NTO.A NNO.TO