Strengthening the management of mineral exploitation in Que Phong.

(Baonghean.vn) -Continuing the monitoring plan, on the morning of April 8th, the Economic and Budget Committee of the Provincial People's Council, led by Mr. Tran Quoc Chung - Deputy Head of the Economic and Budget Committee, held a working session with the leaders of Que Phong District People's Committee on the management and protection of mineral resources in the district. Also participating were Mr. Le Minh Thong - Member of the Provincial Party Standing Committee, Chairman of the Provincial Inspection Committee; Mr. Pham Anh Tuan - Provincial Party Committee Member, Chairman of the Provincial Labor Union; and Mr. Nguyen Dinh Hoa - Director of the Provincial Tax Department.

Comrade Tran Quoc Chung delivered a speech at the working session.

According to a report from the leaders of Que Phong district, there are 11 licensed mineral mining enterprises in the area, including alluvial gold, iron ore, and construction stone. Of these, only 4 enterprises are currently operating at their licensed mining sites. However, illegal mining activities are still prevalent in Que Phong, especially organized and small-scale alluvial gold mining in Cam Muon commune. Regarding licensed mining sites, while enterprises generally comply with the law, this compliance is not always serious or complete. Tax arrears are common; environmental protection during mining is not prioritized; and occupational safety and health for workers are not adequately ensured. Some licensed mining enterprises are constructing processing plants without permits, leading to significant environmental consequences. Even though the mining permits have expired and the mines have been closed, the businesses have not organized the restoration of the environment to its original state...

During the working session, the supervisory delegation requested the People's Committee of Que Phong district to clarify the situation of alluvial gold mining in Quang Phong and Cam Muon; the measures taken against some businesses that have not complied with the law on the management and protection of mineral resources; the coordination between levels, sectors, and localities in managing and protecting mineral resources in the area, as well as the fulfillment of obligations to the State by mineral mining enterprises. The delegation requested Que Phong district to continue strengthening State management of mineral activities in the area, especially those unlicensed minerals that have been decentralized to the district. They also requested stronger and more decisive leadership and direction, and increased responsibility at the commune level, in order to rectify and stabilize the situation in mineral mining in the area. Measures should be taken to urge businesses to fully fulfill their obligations to the State, such as paying taxes, implementing environmental protection measures during mining, and restoring the environment after mining.

Minh Chi