New taxes, levies create uncertainty in Ghana’s mining sector – Dr Aubynn
The introduction and increases in taxes and levies by the government, its agencies and local governments are among uncertainties and risks associated with mining in Ghana, Dr Tony Aubynn, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, has said.
These was contained in an address read on his behalf at the closing of the zone two safety and first aid competition organized by the Inspectorate Division of the Minerals Commission on the theme “ Safety is Life” at Sefwi Etwebo near Bibiani on Saturday.
Dr. Aubynn said these increases had led to cost increases of the mine and in the wake of the decline of the price of gold as well as increases in power, labour, fuel and consumables the viability and sustainability of most mining companies had become critical.
He appealed to the government to collaborate with the mining industry to implement measures that would ensure survival of the mining industry in the light of the fall in gold price on the world market.
Dr Aubynn appealed to employees and communities to use safety lessons to transform their communities and work places.
The Ghana Bauxite Company (GBC) won the first position with 83.5 points and Noble Gold Bibiani was second with 79.5 points. The third and four positions went to Newmont Ahafo Mine with 77 points Chirano Gold Mines, 69 points.
Mr. Gordon Ruttenburg, Acting general Manager of Chirano Gold Mines, thanked the competing teams but reminded them that safety cannot be compromised and should be upheld not only by mine workers but also the society as a whole.
Nana Frimpong Manso 11, Chairman of the Community Consultative Committee (CCC) of Chirano Gold Mines, commended the mining companies for the safety competitions and the knowledge that is passed to the communities.
He appealed to mining companies not to use the decline in the price of gold on the world market to retrench its employees since it could create social unrest in areas where mining is taking place in the country.
Nana Frimpong Manso suggested to mining companies to establish intermediate technical and vocational institutions to train locals whose educational levels are low for the mining sector to create employment opportunities.
The Chirano Gold Mines community team emerged winners with 90 while the Noble Community Team emerged second with 87 points.
The third and fourth position went to the Newmont Ahafo community team and the Ghana Bauxite Company community teams.
Source: GNA