The Ministry of Energy and Energy Affairs has put out for public comment a Green Paper on a Minerals Policy for T&T. It is intended to serve as a guide for national discussion and debate.The document seeks to outline a future direction for the minerals sector and chart a course forward which will enable it to become more efficient, effective and operate within a comprehensive regulatory framework consistent with existing legislation.
The sector supports construction and is an important component of the supply side of the economy.One of the fundamental issues affecting it is the scourge of illegal mining (quarrying), especially on State lands, which in many instances has resulted in detrimental impacts upon the environment and the quality of life of the citizens of this country.
A national minerals policy will ensure that the country is better able to harness optimal value from the use of its mineral resources.