The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has 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.
He made these comments in response to calls from civil society groups and environmentalists urging the government to revoke L.I. 2462 which permits mining in forest reserves, and stop granting new licenses to mining companies.
Appearing before Parliament’s Assurance Committee on Monday, October 7, Ayisi argued that if licenses were not granted, it would push individuals into illegal mining commonly known as “galamsey” as a way to continue their activities.
“When you don’t give them the licenses, what they would do is that – they would go and to do it illegally. To say that we shouldn’t grant licenses, that would be a problem,” he argued.
Mr. Ayisi also highlighted that delays in the issuance of mining licenses contribute to the illegal mining problem, stressing that withholding licenses would worsen the situation.
He further acknowledged that even licensed companies do not always comply with mining regulations, underscoring the need for strict monitoring and evaluation.
Additionally, he pointed out ongoing illegal mining activities, specifically mentioning that ‘galamsey’ was taking place behind a police station in Anyinam, Atiwa East District and yet nothing has been done by the police to halt it.
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