The Mineworkers Union of Zambia (MUZ) has continued to advocate for the retention of all workers in the mining sector despite changes in the tax regime.
MUZ president Joseph Chewe said mine employees are usually casualties whenever there are changes in tax regime or a drop in copper prices on the international market.
Mr. Chewe said mine investors find it easy to cut jobs of local people without considering other mining operations and expatriates.
He was speaking in Kitwe yesterday during a public discussion forum dubbed ‘new mining tax and job losses’.
Mr. Chewe disclosed that the union leaders have been engaging all investors running the mines in the country noting that management some mines have since rescinded their earlier decisions.
And the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZCCI) has urged mine investors and government to continue dialoguing.
ZACCI president Michael Nyirenda said there should be mutual understanding between investors and government in order to responsibly exploit the numerous natural resources which Zambia is endowed with.
Mr. Nyirenda has meanwhile appealed for policy consistency on the part of government in all sectors.
He has applauded the mines on their decision to withdraw plans to cut jobs.
Meanwhile, president of the Chamber of Mines Goodwill Mateyo said government and mining investors should compromise and a strike a win-win deal.
Mr. Mateyo said it is possible during dialogue for government to get significant returns from the mines which should also operate profitably.
