Fresh from the AN website.

AN investigate illegal exploitation of minerals in the state of
Bolivar

He emphasized that currently are doing to monitor the application of a group of workers established mining in the region, not to continue in areas not permissible that affect watersheds geographical tributaries to Caroní.


Caracas: 11-07-2008

The Committee on Energy and Mines of the National Assembly will
investigate the illegal extraction of gold and diamonds in Bolivar
state by transnational corporations, said on Friday the deputy Jesus Ernesto Graterol, vice president of that legislative body.

He emphasized that currently are doing to monitor the application of a group of workers established mining in the region, not to continue in areas not permissible that affect watersheds geographical tributaries to Caroní.

He noted that it appears behind these operations are the hands of transnational corporations, taking into account that a miner can not bear such expensive equipment. "This is a worrying situation because they are also polluting the waters with mercury to the detriment of the health of indigenous peoples."

The deputy Graterol the bench of the PSUV, announced that the
ministers are convening of the area to create interministerial
committees jointly with the vice president of Republic, Ramon
Carrizales, with the aim find a way out favorable.

He warned that he is not giving longer the problem of illegal mining, but neither can abandon the mine and leave the matter to fate.

"We believe that we must all find ways to resolve this situation,
other than pañitos with lukewarm water, but on an ongoing basis, so they can engage in other productive activities", he added.

He is also required the involvement of People's Power Ministry for
Agriculture and Land, so that those miners are able to participate in the crop without affecting land.

Ernesto Vegas / AN Press

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