The House of Representatives has summoned Bea Mountain Concession Company (BMCC) to appear before its full plenary on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. This decision follows the presentation of a preliminary report by the House Committee on Investment and Concession regarding BMCC’s compliance with recommendations issued after a March 12, 2024 incident at the company’s operational site.
The committee’s report highlighted serious concerns related to workplace safety, environmental management, and corporate social responsibility, which were identified in an investigation conducted by a Joint Committee, and clear recommendations were provided BMMC to address the concerns and align its operation with regulatory and best practice standards.
According to the House, despite multiple communications, including official queries dated February 12 and February 20, BMCC has failed to adequately respond to the committee’s inquiries. This lack of cooperation raises significant concerns about BMCC’s commitment to addressing critical safety and environmental issues.
The committee said they view BMCC’s non-responsiveness as an obstruction to transparency and accountability in concession operations.
In response, the Committee on Investment and Concession has urged the plenary to summon BMCC to provide a comprehensive update on the status of its compliance with the recommendations. The committee said they are particularly alarmed by BMCC’s failure to implement necessary safety measures, which pose potential risks to workers and surrounding communities.
Additionally, they disclosed that the unresolved environmental concerns present a major threat to the local ecosystem and residents who depend on natural resources for their livelihood.
The committee echoed that they encourage active participation from stakeholders, including community representatives, labor unions, and environmental advocacy groups in monitoring BMCC’s activities. “A multi-stakeholder approach is essential in holding concessionaires accountable and promoting sustainable development,” the committee stated.
“The committee reaffirms its commitment to protecting the interests of the Liberian people by ensuring that all concessionaires, including BMCC, operate within the established legal framework”.
