LETTERS TO THE EDITOR — Industry must evolve to include stakeholders in developing nations

We read with great interest the article “Social problems in developing countries pose challenge” (T.N.M., March 22-29/98).

Since Etruscan began exploration in Niger, West Africa, in 1994, we have been committed to making a positive social impact in that country. From the beginning, it has been Etruscan’s philosophy to provide some sort of assistance, albeit small, to the people of Niger so that they might begin to move towards achieving economic sustainability. Many of us take for granted the standard of living we currently enjoy.

We have witnessed first-hand the struggles and hardships of daily life in Niger, and have undertaken a number of initiatives aimed at helping the people of Niger. We believe companies have a responsibility to be aware of local social issues and attempt to assist. These efforts should not be delayed until legislation or social unrest forces a company to act.

Etruscan has built schools and provided infrastructure such as roads, reservoirs, warehouses, wells, and trees. Local people are trained and employed as often as possible, and Etruscan has also supplied food aid. Most recently, Etruscan built a one storey, seven-room health care facility in the village of Toure. The construction was supervised by John Savage, a doctor and former premier of Nova Scotia, who has been studying ways to provide health care assistance to the locals. (Medical equipment and pharmaceuticals were purchased or donated by Nova Scotia businesses.) We are optimistic the people of Niger will benefit from this facility for many years to come.

We applaud The Northern Miner for addressing this important issue. We strongly encourage all natural resource companies working in developing countries to consider establishing company-wide policies regarding social programs. It not only makes good business sense to establish positive relationships with the local people and government, it is the appropriate ethical and humanitarian code of behaviour.

Gerald McConnell

Etruscan Resources