MCM MAINTAINS WORKFORCE

Labour Minister Joyce Simukoko says Mopani Copper Mines’ stance of not retrenching workers as a result of the new tax regime is a step in the right direction.
Mrs. Simukoko says the move will strengthen the relationship between mining firms, Government and Zambians on whose behalf the treasury seeks to raise funds for socio-economic investments.
Mopani Copper Mines Chief Executive Officer Chris Vermeulen has assured Government that there will be no retrenchments at his firm as a result of the introduction of the new tax regime for the mining sector.
Mr. Vermeulen has expressed his long-term commitment to Zambia saying the company will not retrench workers in pursuit of investment plans.
He has also clarified that any reduction in human resource at the Mufulira and Kitwe companies is as a result of the company completing some projects at its site over the next five years and not because of the new tax regime.
And Mopani Chairperson and Director Moses Chilangwa says the mining firm approaches dialogue in a mutually respectful atmosphere with the government whenever aggrieved.
Meanwhile, Mopani Copper Mines Chief Financial Officer John Chiwele has appealed to Government to consider liquidating the outstanding VAT refunds to the firm.
Mopani management and government on Thursday held a consultative meeting at the Ministry of Finance Headquarters in Lusaka.
This is contained in a statement availed to ZNBC news by ministry of finance spokesperson Chileshe Kandeta.

News Source: ZNBC