Business News of Friday, 12 April 2013
Source: GNA
Ghana Exploration and Production Forum, a non-profit association of private sector upstream oil and gas companies operating in Ghana, has called for expedited action on the Petroleum Bill.
Mr Anthony Djokoto of Tullow Oil, who made the call when members called on Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister of Energy in Accra on Thursday said the Forum looked forward to discussing the Draft Petroleum Bill and provide feedback to government.
Mr Djokoto said the Forum that started as an informal gathering of representatives from a small group of oil and gas companies operating in Ghana was formed to promote the long-term sustainability of the industry, provide valuable feedback on industry legislation and policies and their implications.
The Forum represents interest of members by advocating through formal and informal dialogue with government and civil society particularly in areas relating to regulation of the industry and local content. Mr Buah, noted that the Forum offer a good platform for the Energy Ministry to engage and communicate with the industry.
He expressed his desire to engage more frequently with members on relevant legislations, policy issues as well as environment and safety issues. He said the Forum’s feedback on the Draft Petroleum Bill is necessary, adding the ministry is willing to hold a meeting to discuss the issue.
He affirmed government’s commitment to create opportunities for local companies to participate in the industry and expressed his desire to work closely with the Forum to realise their objective.