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Dr. Edward Omane-Boamah, Deputy Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, has appealed to the people especially the youth in the Western Region to acquire specialised skills relevant to the oil industry.
"It is only specialised training that will enable you get employment in the oil industry," he said, adding that, his Ministry is putting in place training programmes on the oil industry for the youth.

Dr. Omane-Boamah was speaking at a public hearing on phase one development of the jubilee oil fields organised by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

He said, adequate environmental safeguards should be designed to protect the country's environment and natural resources when drilling for oil begins.

The hearing, according to Dr. Omane-Boamah, is to ensure that the chiefs and people are extensively consulted and their concerns fully captured and addressed so that the project will be implemented in an environmentally sound and socially acceptable manner.

Dr. Omane-Boamah advised the Tullow Oil Company against adversely affecting the livelihood of the people in its catchments area through its operations.

He said, despite its abundant natural resources, the region lags behind in development and expressed the hope that the discovery of oil will redress some of the developmental challenges in the area.

Dr. Omane-Boamah appealed to the company to ensure transparency in their dealings and observe the human rights of people who will be engaged.

Awulae Annor Adjaye III, the Omanhene of Western Nzema Traditional Area, expressed concern about how hazardous waste from oil operations will be properly disposed because of the environmental problems of some oil producing countries.

The chiefs also expressed concern about the influx of foreigners into the country as a result of the oil find and food security.

Mr. Kofi Essoun, Country and International Relations Manager of Tullow Oil Cmpany,said, the company has developed a long-term waste management strategy to ensure safe and proper disposal of its waste.

He said, the company will observe international standards and local laws in its operation and make health and safety a top priority.

Credit: GNA
Source: http://www.ghana.gov.gh