Tarkwa (w/r), March 10, GNA-- Mr Cletus Avoka, Minister of Environment Science and Technology (MEST), has said though the government appreciates the role of surface mining in the socio-economic development of the country, that should not be to the detriment of the environment.

Mr Avoka made the call when he met the management and staff of Goldfield Ghana Limited (GGL) at Tarkwa, as part of a three-day familiarisation tour of the mining companies in the Wassa West district.

The tour would also enable the minister to ascertain the extent at which mining companies have complied with Environmental Assessment Regulations. The minister said mining companies must fill back pits and dispose off waste materials safely to ensure sustainable development.

In this regard, he said, all mining companies should provide EPAs with their reclamation plans by March 31, this year. Mr Avoka said outstanding compensation for individuals and communities which have suffered loss or damage as a result of exploration and mining activities should be paid.

Mr Stephen Yirenkyi, the Reclamation and Resettlement Manager of GGL in a presentation said, due to the surface mining, two communities, Akontase and Atoabo have been resettled.

He said, however, that 154 Landlords who have refused their packages are contesting their cases at the law court. In response to a question as to what provision has been made for farmers, Mr Yirenkyi said there is a vast land within the mining concession area which has been earmarked for farming but one has to apply to GGL for permission to farm there.

In the minister's entourage were the deputy minister of MEST, Mr Lee Ocran and Dr. Peter Acquah, the executive director of EPA.