Pretoria – The Select Committee on Trade and International Relations has voiced concern over the pending retrenchments in the mining sector.
Committee Chairperson Eddie Makue said it was however satisfying to see the level of involvement by the Department of Mineral Resources in trying to resolve the matter.
“The committee is happy with how government is trying to resolve the issue and trying to ensure that the country escapes a possible catastrophe of job losses in a sector which is a backbone of the economy.
“The committee also notes with appreciation all the plans shared by the local municipalities and provincial government today. This is assurance that the two municipalities are capacitated to deliver effectively to our people,” he said.
The North West Development Corporation (NDWC) had briefed the committee on challenges economic growth faced by the province.
The corporation highlighted as a challenge the talk of pending retrenchments by mining companies, but said it looked to diversify the economy of the province so as to counter an eventuality of job loss.
Makue said a strong focus on growing tourism and agricultural economy is needed in the province, and ensuring that the province is competitive.
“All these issues collectively speak to localisation, and beneficiation both processes that will ensure a strong manufacturing sector once the proposed special economic zone (SEZ) is operational,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
