Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lima (Agenzia Fides) - "Making the mineral sector more humane" was the title of a statement issued by the Catholic Bishops of Peru after a meeting in Lima on 18 September on the exploitation of minerals in the Piura region. Last Sunday, 16 September, in three rural districts of Piura, situated close to the border with Ecuador, popular consultations were held with regard to the exploitation of local copper by the Majaz Mining Company. The majority rejected mining activity in the area but the government declared the popular consultation illegal. In their statement the Bishops say exploitation of the country's natural resources must take into account the people's living conditions.
They affirm that “God has amply blessed Peru with many sources of life and natural riches", making it "one of the countries with the greatest diversity of plants, animals, fish, forests and minerals". They say that if well used these resources, "can promote significant growth in economic activities, income and investments in the social development of the whole country", and contribute to "the progress of the nation and the common good of all Peruvians".
The Bishops say the local Church is not against “correct exploitation of the country's natural resources including minerals, indeed it encourages any activity which will render the people's living conditions more humane". The Bishops recall that a high percentage of Peruvians still live in poverty and as therefore as Shepherds of the People of God they encourage efforts "to build a culture of peace, by means of fair, equal, constructive dialogue, tolerance of opinions, based on respect for the dignity of the human person and the common good". " Progress in Peru - the statement concludes - demands dialogue, good formation of consciences, access to information, listening and generous opening to reach together the truth on the part of all". (RG) (Agenzia Fides 20/9/2007; righe 25, parole 350)
