Gov’t seeks support for ailing bauxite industry

The Government is remaining tightlipped following reports that China could rescue the ailing bauxite sector.



Government sources said the administration could soon make a major announcement about the involvement of China in the industry.

Yesterday, the mining minister, Derrick Smith, would not confirm nor deny the reports.



He would only say a government team would be travelling overseas in two weeks to seek support for the sector.



Mining minister Derrick Smith speaking yesterday at a church service to launch national minerals week.



He said the government was committed to taking the steps necessary to cushion the impact of the bauxite fallout on the Jamaican family.



Last week, Chinese Government officials, led by vice president Xi Jinping were in Jamaica for talks with the Bruce Golding administration.



However, there was no indication that the bauxite/alumina industry was among the areas discussed.



Following the talks, Prime Minister Golding said seven agreements and letters of exchange were signed with China.



He also said discussions were also being held with a number of Chinese entrepreneurs in relation to various major investment projects.