The National Parliament’s Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC) will commence its inquiry into the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 on Monday 1 September 2025.
The Committee had initially resolved at its meeting on 18 August to begin hearings on Wednesday 27 August.
However, this has since been rescheduled, with the inquiry now set to start in September. The hearings are expected to take up the first and second weeks of the month.
Following the conclusion of this inquiry, the Committee will take a short recess before proceeding with its review of the Public Service Bill 2025, while awaiting budget approval for provincial hearings on the Mineral Resources Bill.
The Mineral Resources Bill 2025 is regarded as a landmark piece of legislation aimed at modernising the country’s regulatory framework for mineral resources.
It seeks to establish a clear and accountable system for authorising and regulating exploration, extraction, and processing of minerals. Key objectives of the Bill include:
- Balancing development and protection by supporting mineral exploration and extraction while safeguarding the natural, social, and cultural environment of communities.
- Respecting customary rights, including ownership, use, and occupation of land, water, and sea in line with traditional practices.
- Promoting environmental responsibility and sound land management in mining operations.
- Clarifying rights and obligations of landowners, communities, and industry stakeholders to encourage fair, harmonious, and mutually beneficial relationships.
- Securing economic benefits by ensuring fair financial returns that maximise value for present and future generations of Solomon Islanders.
The BLC encourages stakeholders and the general public to follow the inquiry live via Parliament’s official Facebook page.
