Chairman of the Local Committee of Contractors and Mining Services at Prestea-Bogoso, James Quaicoe, has defended government’s decision to revoke the mining license of FGR/Blue Gold, describing it as a necessary step to save the ailing mine and protect local livelihoods.
He insisted that the former operators have themselves to blame for the revocation, as they were given ample opportunity to rectify their financial and operational lapses but failed to do so.
According to Mr. Quaicoe, FGR/Blue Gold’s insolvency and indebtedness left workers, suppliers, and contractors in dire conditions, prompting several petitions to the previous government to intervene.
“Since Heath Goldfields took over, hope has been rekindled. I believe they will do well and bring back life to the mine,” he said.
Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Quaicoe said the Heath Goldfields company, which recently took over operations, has begun making significant progress in restoring the mine’s functionality and workers’ confidence.
“I am aware of all the challenges that plagued the Prestea-Bogoso Mine. Workers and contractors were owed several months of arrears, but Heath Goldfields has started making payments and has shown commitment to clear all outstanding debts. Some people have already received part payments,” he noted.
Mr. Quaicoe noted that the new operators are currently working to repair critical infrastructure, including mining plants, the underground shafts, and the surrounding road network. moves he described as a “ray of hope” for the community.
He further disclosed that both government and local opinion leaders had engaged FGR/Blue Gold multiple times over the company’s non-performance before its license was eventually revoked.
“FGR/Blue Gold were served with first and second notices, and community leaders also raised concerns, but nothing was done. The government only followed due process to revoke their license,” he stated.
FGR/Blue Gold has accused the Lands Ministry and the Minerals Commission of unlawfully transferring ownership of the Prestea-Bogoso Mine to Heath Goldfields.
However, government and local stakeholders have firmly rejected the claims, insisting the move was legitimate and in the best interest of the mining community.
Source: Gertrude Otchere