The Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor has intimated that, the various Regional Minister-designates have a role to play in the fight against the long-term issue of illegal mining in the country.
Speaking during a meeting with the Regional Minister- designates, he explained that, their role is due to the fact that they are important representatives of the President and as such must execute their duties diligently to help fight the menace.
Mr. Jinapor further expressed his optimism about winning the fight against illegal small-scale mining if, Regional Ministers play an active part in the fight.
“The real problem has to do with the illegal small-scale mining which all of us are very much aware tends to degraded the environment.
“I think the regional ministers should take the controlling lead to be our arrowheads.”
Samuel Jinapor
The Minister reminded the minister-designates of the President’s call for a national consultative dialogue on small-scale mining. He disclosed, a Committee is being put in place to organize a national dialogue in that regard.
Additionally, Mr Jinapor disclosed his commitment to working closely with the regional ministers in resolving the complicated challenges in the lands and natural resources sector. In return, he also received the support of the Regional Minister-designates to tackle the menace of illegal small-scale mining.
Furthermore, he expressed his resolve to making such interactions with various stakeholders a regular feature of the Ministry’s work. This interaction will aim at building broad base support for government’s policies.
Mr. Jinapor On Galamsey During Vetting
Mr. Jinapor has been vocal about his commitment to tackling illegal mining since his vetting for his current portfolio.
Moreover, Mr. Jinapor during his vetting assured that, the government is committed to fighting illegal mining despite the challenges it has encountered .
“I agree that you will often have people in your own party and chiefs trying to frustrate the fight against illegal mining. But I want to give a firm assurance that if I get the approval of Parliament, I’m moving in there with all humility and modesty to apply the law without fear or favour.”
SamuelJinapor
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President Reposes Confidence in Jinapor In Galamsey Fight
The President on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 reposed his confidence in the new Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Samuel Jinapor, in holding a national dialogue to help in the fight against illegal small-scale mining in the country.
Reading the State of The Nation’s address he reiterated his commitment to bringing an end to illegal mining by the end of his administration.
“I am confident that the new, energetic Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and MP for Damongo Constituency, Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor, will rapidly facilitate the holding of this national dialogue. He will work to build on the progress of his predecessors by enhancing regulation of this sector, which should be anchored on the protection of the environment and on community mining.”
Samuel Jinapor
GNASSM Supports Minister on Galamsey
The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners has also pledged support for Mr. Samuel Jinapor and has urged him to be resolute in the fight against illegal mining activities.