The National Democratic Congress (NDC) campaign committee on mining is confident the party’s outlined policies have the potential to transform small-scale mining in the country.
This is the message being preached to small-scale miners in the Ashanti Region as the political party commences a tour of mining areas.
So far, constituencies visited by the team include; Atwima Nwabiagya North, Atwima Nwabiagya South, Ahafo Ano North and Ahafo Ano South.
Member of the campaign committee, Michael Kwadwo Peprah explains, “NDC is not against small-scale mining. If you hear people propagating that message, disregard it”.
“The NDC is only interested in ensuring it is properly done. We will provide mining engineers and other professionals for that purpose”, he said.
The 17-pointer Manifesto policies on mining outline relevant measures to protect the environment.
With the manifesto as a guide, the committee members have been touring some small-scale mining concessions to educate them.
The party’s plans to decentralize regulatory and licensing processes for artisanal mining to enhance responsible mining among sector players featured prominently in the message delivered.
“There is a thin line between small scale mining and illegal mining. We are interested in bringing the minerals commission to the District level, the Environmental Protection Agency as well to make license acquisition easier”, Mr. Peprah emphasized.
The issue of gold mining has become topical in the few months leading to the general election.
All leading political parties have proposed strategies to manage illegal mining in their manifestos.
The NPP government, in seeking re-election, continues to mount a strong defense on allegations of poor management of the environment as the negative impact of galamsey remains evident.
To the opposition NDC, the small-scale mining sector is relevant in the economic recovery of the country if properly regulated.
“The NDC is the party that brought about small-scale mining in the country, we are not against it. We are against irresponsible mining. If we know what you are doing is in the right direction, we support it and will be ready to support you where you call short”, a member of the team Samuel Hadjor added.
The committee intends to reach all mining communities across the country to maximize votes for the NDC.
Source: www.adomonline.com
