NDC MPs Push to Repeal Law: Three Members of Parliament (MPs) from Ghana’s main opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have introduced a Private Members’ Bill aimed at repealing Section 3(2) of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2022 (L.I. 2462).

This provision currently grants the President the power to issue mining leases for exploration within forest reserves, which the MPs argue is detrimental to the environment and contrary to the public interest. The MPs who submitted the bill are Alhassan Suhuyini, representing Tamale North, Francis-Xavier Sosu of Madina, and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa from North Tongu. They formally submitted the bill to the Clerk of Parliament on October 22, 2024.

NDC MPs Push to Repeal Law: Rationale Behind the Repeal

The legislators behind the proposed bill assert that, as representatives of the people, they have a heightened responsibility to ensure the protection of Ghanaians’ rights to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment. They emphasize that part of this duty involves holding the Executive accountable while enacting laws and policies that safeguard public health, ecosystems, and natural resources.

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The bill’s introduction comes against a backdrop of concerns raised by various stakeholders, including the Ghana Institute of Foresters (GIF). The GIF had previously voiced strong objections to the passage of L.I. 2462, highlighting the significant environmental, economic, and social harm that mining in forest reserves has already caused. The MPs argue that the regulation has facilitated environmental degradation, with dire consequences for the nation’s health and social well-being. This, they contend, necessitates urgent action to repeal Section 3(2) to halt further damage and promote sustainable environmental practices.

Addressing Environmental and Social Impacts

In their argument for the repeal, the MPs underscored that the passage of L.I. 2462 has led to extensive environmental degradation, particularly within forest reserves, which are critical ecosystems. The disturbances caused by mining activities have had far-reaching implications, including deforestation, soil erosion, pollution of water bodies, and loss of biodiversity. These environmental impacts extend to local communities, where the resulting damage has disrupted livelihoods, particularly for those dependent on agriculture and forestry.

The lawmakers also pointed out the adverse health effects linked to mining operations, such as the contamination of water sources, which poses significant risks to community health. They noted that while the mining sector contributes to economic development, the negative externalities associated with mining in ecologically sensitive areas far outweigh the economic benefits. The MPs expressed concerns that allowing mining activities in forest reserves undermines Ghana’s commitments to environmental conservation and sustainable development goals.

Government’s Plan to Revoke Mining Regulations

In a parallel move, the government has announced its intention to present a new Legislative Instrument (L.I.) to Parliament that seeks to revoke the existing provisions permitting mining activities in forest reserves. The Effutu MP and Leader of Government Business, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, revealed during a parliamentary session on October 15 that the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI), with technical support from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ministry of Justice, is in the process of drafting the new regulation.

The proposed new instrument is part of a broader government strategy to address illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, which has wreaked havoc on forest reserves, water bodies, and agricultural lands across the country. Galamsey has long been associated with unsustainable mining practices that not only cause environmental damage but also exacerbate social and economic challenges in affected communities. By seeking to amend existing mining regulations, the government aims to strengthen environmental protection measures and curb illegal mining activities that threaten the nation’s natural heritage.

A Call for Accountability and Reform

NDC MPs Push to Repeal Law: The introduction of the Private Members’ Bill by the NDC MPs serves as a call for greater accountability and reform in Ghana’s environmental management practices. The legislators argue that Ghana’s legal framework should prioritize environmental conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. In their view, Section 3(2) of L.I. 2462 contradicts this objective by granting too much discretionary power to the Executive to authorize mining in protected areas, potentially compromising the integrity of the country’s forest reserves.

The MPs stressed that it is imperative for lawmakers to protect the interests of future generations by enacting legislation that preserves the environment and promotes sustainable development. They called on Parliament to support the bill and ensure that the laws governing mining activities in Ghana are consistent with the country’s environmental conservation goals and international commitments.

Stakeholders’ Reactions and the Path Forward

NDC MPs Push to Repeal Law: The proposal to repeal the regulation has garnered support from various environmental groups and advocacy organizations that have long criticized the impact of mining on Ghana’s forest reserves. However, some stakeholders in the mining industry may view the repeal as a potential threat to economic development, citing concerns over potential job losses and reduced investment in the sector.

In light of these differing perspectives, the ongoing parliamentary debate on the bill is expected to address the complex balance between environmental sustainability and economic development. The government’s concurrent efforts to introduce new mining regulations further indicate a broader recognition of the need for reform in the sector.

The outcome of this legislative process will play a crucial role in shaping Ghana’s approach to natural resource management and environmental protection. If the bill to repeal Section 3(2) is passed, it will signal a significant shift in policy, underscoring the country’s commitment to prioritizing environmental sustainability and the long-term well-being of its citizens over short-term economic gains.

Conclusion

NDC MPs Push to Repeal Law: The introduction of the Private Members’ Bill to repeal Section 3(2) of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2022 (L.I. 2462) marks an important step in addressing the environmental challenges posed by mining in Ghana.

By seeking to limit the President’s discretionary power to issue mining leases in forest reserves, the bill aims to protect the country’s natural resources and promote sustainable development. As the debate unfolds, the perspectives of various stakeholders will be critical in shaping a regulatory framework that balances environmental protection with economic growth, ensuring that Ghana’s natural heritage is preserved for future generations.

Source: myjoyonline

NDC MPs Push to Repeal Law