The Chairman of Parliament’s Select Committee on Environment, Science, and Technology, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, has revealed plans to bring up the issue of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, in Parliament on Tuesday, October 15.
He expressed concern over the government’s ongoing silence on the issue, describing it as alarming.
Parliament is scheduled to begin the 5th meeting of its 4th session on October 15, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre.
In an interview with Accra based Citi News, the Member of Parliament for Lower Manya Krobo emphasized the government’s failure to adequately address illegal mining.
“When we resume, I intend to raise several issues on the floor, particularly regarding galamsey and the government’s inaction. I will ensure that the relevant officials are summoned to Parliament to explain why this menace continues unchecked.”
He further criticized the government’s focus on electoral gains, saying, “The entire nation is against illegal mining, yet this government remains silent. Their priority seems to be winning elections, and I believe that is deeply concerning.”
Mr Terlabi also expressed frustration over the repeated delays in passing the Environmental Protection Bill, which has stalled in Parliament.
“I am beginning to understand why some ministers and presidential appointees are resisting the passage of the EPA bill. This bill would empower the EPA with policing authority over various environmental institutions, but we face opposition from certain ministries trying to obstruct our efforts,” he lamented.
Source: Adomonline
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