Following the recent disclosure by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, that some new companies had been granted mining licenses, which has led to some public uproar, a new, related detail has emerged.
This time, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has shared details about the ratio of licenses issued under the former John Dramani Mahama administration, as against the ones under the incumbent.
In his appearance before Parliament’s Assurance Committee on Monday, October 7, Martin Ayisi said that there were more licenses issued in the erstwhile government than there have been under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Presenting a document to the Committee of Parliament, which is chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minerals Commission CEO noted that the increased number of licenses granted during Mahama’s tenure has contributed to the current challenges facing the mining industry.
He emphasised the need for responsible mining practices and better oversight to ensure that small-scale mining activities do not lead to environmental degradation and social issues, a report by myjoyonline.com has said.
The Minerals Commission has faced criticism over the rise in illegal mining activities, commonly known as “galamsey,” which has severe repercussions on the environment and local communities.
Martin Ayisi explained that while small-scale mining plays a crucial role in the economy, it is essential to strike a balance between economic benefits and environmental protection.
The Minerals Commission CEO has also opposed calls for halting the issuance of new mining licenses amid calls for government action against all forms of illegal mining.
According to him, such a move could exacerbate the illegal mining crisis.
“That’s why I keep saying if we don’t license them, things will go (sic)… so it shouldn’t be a blanket ban; that you can actually say for these ones, life must go on.
“Not selective ban. Let me be honest with you, nobody will give you license to go into the water bodies. What is just happening is criminal and it has to be dealt with, but I will not favour a blanket ban and say because of what has happened, everybody should stop their work,” he said.
Watch a clip of his time at Parliament below:
Also below is the list presented by the Minerals Commission regarding the ratio of licenses presented in the Mahama era versus those issued under Akufo-Addo:
Source: www.ghanaweb.com
