NEPA CEO Meets With Delegation On Mining In Cockpit Country

September 28, 2015

A delegation of approximately 60 persons from various communities in St Ann and Trelawny called on the National Environment and Planning Agency's (NEPA) Chief Executive Officer, Peter Knight to discuss concerns and delivered letters expressing opposition to mining in the Cockpit Country.

Led by Michael Schwartz, head of the Windsor Research Centre, the delegation was received by Mr. Knight at NEPA's head offices on Caledonia Avenue in Kingston on Wednesday, September 23.

Mr. Knight, in welcoming the group, informed them that the matter is now before Cabinet for a decision. He also commended them for adopting a consultative approach to seeking resolution rather than resorting to blocking of roads and the downing of trees.

The delegation was advised by Mr. Knight that their concerns will be brought to the attention of Robert Pickersgill, Minister of Water, Land, Environment and Climate Change and the executive team in the Ministry.

The group also planned calls on Minister Pickersgill; Mines and Geology Division; Ministry of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining and other ministries.

Peter Knight (right), Chief Executive Officer of the National Environment and Planning Agency accepts a petition letter from Clavie Johnson, principal at Elderslie Primary & Junior High School.

Peter Knight (centre), Chief Executive Officer of the National Environment and Planning Agency peruses a petition letter from a contingent of 60 persons from Western St. Ann and representatives of the Windsor Research Centre who met with him on Wednesday, September 23 to deliver a petition letter to protest against the mining of bauxite in the Cockpit Country.