Miners announced satisfied by payment of the conversion
Written by Hernan Velazco / Photo: Elke Door
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Alfredo Villanueva-Bolívar. City chief spokesman of the former workers of artisanal mining in Bolivar state, who were displaced from mining areas after a certain decision of the National Government to preserve natural resources, said that these people are welcome the announcement by the President of the Republic, in relation to the cancellation of payment of the commitments of the Mining conversion.
Thus it was announced yesterday morning, in the conduct of a general assembly outside the premises of the Ministry of Environment in Ciudad Bolivar, a place in which hundreds of former workers gathered to hear the proposals gold mining leader.

"We very much welcome this announcement by President Chavez last Friday, announcing the cancellation of the remaining payment to the miners, as well as the provision of socio-productive loans that allow us to improve our quality of life," said Villanueva.

The leader noted that it was thanks to the mediation of Governor Francisco Rangel Gomez, achieved this important vindication for the mining sector, which has long waited for the payment of commitments made by the executive after running the conversion process, which looking at its core, insert these people in other productive activities that are not detrimental to the environment.

"We believe that this time if social justice is being done with us the miners. We are awaiting the exact date in order to have agreed to pay after the conversion process, "he said.

In that vein stressed that they are awaiting a meeting with Vice-President of the Republic, which may be made in the city of Puerto Ordaz, in order to settle all matters relating to the payment announced by President Hugo Chavez.

Attentive

Similarly stated to be vigilant and alert at the time of delivery of resources for this claim and avoid any slippages, as happened in 2006, as told by Alfredo Villanueva.

"I do not want to happen like that time when the miners were misled because we know that those resources were diverted with the complicity of the former administration of the foundation Mission Piar" he said.

On the other hand said that his resignation of the Mission Piar, do not affect his determined commitment to the mining sector and the interests of this population. "While we welcome this announcement of the Comandante Chavez, we will remain vigilant against any circumstances that might undermine the rights of miners and mining in Bolívar state," reported.

Finally stressed that the vast majority of the former workers took gold and respected mining conversion process voluntarily vacating the operating areas and expect full compliance with the promises made by the Government under this project.