Mining code reform back in National Assembly

Reforms to Panama’s Mining Code, which led to violent protests and clashes with police earlier in the year, are back on the parliamentary  agenda.

The protests by indigenous groups and environmentalists forced the government to repeal the controversial law 8, which made  development easier for mining companies.

On Wednesday, Deputy  Jorge Ruben Rosas presented an amended eight articles bill.
Its content includes items  agreed to  in March between members of a committee representinf Ngäbe Bugle and Farmers, led by Roger Montezuma, and an ad hoc committee of MPs set up after the repeal Law 8.
The  new document places restrictions on mining, specifically in the area Ngäbe Bugle,and the cancellation of all existing concessions and domestic or foreign companies for exploration and exploitation of mineral resources and constructionof hydro- electric projects in the region.
However deputies are entitled to propose any changes to the project, said  Rosas.
Rogelio Montezuma, president of the indigenous group  said they would be  alert to not include changes that promote mining in the region and  among indigenous communities.