... Ghana News Agency stands by its original story
Accra, March 10, GNA - We publish below an unsigned rejoinder from the Public Relations Office of the Ministry of Lands, Forestry and Mines.

"The attention of the Ministry of Lands, Forestry and Mines has been drawn to a GNA story published in the Daily Graphic on Monday, February 27, 2006 captioned 'three national parks to go private'.

"In the publication, the Hon. Minister was quoted to have said that the Kakum National Park in the Central Region, the Mole National Park in the Northern Region and the Shai Hills in the Greater Accra Region would go private.

"Prof. Fobih is reported to have announced this at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Friday, February 24, 2006 during a ceremony to formally introduce members of the Advisory Board of the Kumasi Zoo to the Asantehene.

"What the Hon. Minister, really said at the function was that government would welcome private entities to undertake commercial activities through the provision of such services as hotels, restaurants, shops and promotional events at these parks in order to maximize public patronage and generate funds internally.

"This he said would enhance tourism.

"Inasmuch as the ministry appreciates the prominence given to the story, it is of the view that it would serve a greater purpose if clarity and factuality is attached to future publications. "It is hoped that this piece would be given same prominence as in the previous reportage.

"Thank you."

Ghana News Agency, however, stands by its original story.