WESTERN Province (WP) is in the process of drafting a new comprehensive mining policy framework to strengthen governance and ensure transparency in the industry.
Premier Billy Veo told Solomon Star that having a robust policy in place, as mining continues to be a contentious issue — often resulting in environmental damage, land disputes, and conflict between landowners and other stakeholders.
He said this policy is to safe guard land owners, rights of its people, regions resources and the province.
Premier Veo highlighted concerns over incidents where individuals with no legal standing or official authorization were found participating in or influencing mining activities in the province.
“The Western Provincial Government is now taking serious steps to correct past wrongs. One of those is ensuring that only legitimate and qualified persons are involved in policy-making and oversight roles concerning mining,” Premier Veo said.
Premier Veo said the draft mining policy will undergo broad consultations first with the Provincial Executive after stakeholders including landowners, local leaders, and relevant authorities to ensure that the final framework is inclusive and reflects the interests of the people.
He emphasized that once implemented, the policy will support the Western Provincial Government (WPG) in managing natural resources more effectively, while safeguarding against exploitation by unauthorized actors or outside interests.
“This is part of our broader reform agenda to bring integrity and accountability into the way we manage mining in our province,” he stated.
Premier Veo said landowners and any proposed mining companies must consult with the Provincial Government on the development plans and business license procedures before the Executive grants any it.
‘’Even though if the land owners have signed the Surface Access Agreement (SAA) and granted Letter of Intent and prospecting licenses from the Mines and Mineral Board in the Ministry of Mines, Energy, Rural and Electrification (MMERE), they must have to consult with the WPG Executive before approval of the business licenses can be issued,’’ Veo added.
He admitted that addressing mining-related challenges is not a simple task. However, he is confident that the development of a comprehensive mining policy will help clarify roles and resolve ongoing issues.
Premier Veo said a legal officer’s position has already been advertised to assist with the drafting of the policy.
The advertisement closed on Monday, and recruitment is expected to be finalized by May.
The Western Provincial Executive is expected to meet again soon to further consult on the policy and move forward with the recruitment of the legal officer.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
