The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has voiced opposition to calls for halting the issuance of new mining licenses amid rising demands for government action against illegal mining activities.
According to Ayisi, stopping the issuance of new licenses could exacerbate the ongoing illegal mining crisis. His comments came in response to civil society groups and environmentalists urging the government to revoke L.I. 2462, which permits mining in forest reserves, and to cease granting new licenses to mining companies.
During his appearance before Parliament’s Assurance Committee on Monday, October 7, Ayisi argued that withholding licenses would drive individuals into illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” as a means to continue their operations. “When you don’t give them the licenses, what they would do is that – they would go and do it illegally. To say that we shouldn’t grant licenses, that would be a problem,” he stated.
He further emphasized that delays in issuing mining licenses contribute to the illegal mining problem, asserting that withholding licenses would only worsen the situation. Ayisi acknowledged that even licensed companies do not always adhere to mining regulations, underscoring the need for strict monitoring and evaluation.
Additionally, he highlighted ongoing illegal mining activities, specifically noting that ‘galamsey’ operations were taking place behind a police station in Anyinam, Atiwa East District, and criticized the police for their inaction in addressing the issue.