THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Stressing that issues raised by his colleague and Deputy Speaker Michael Lobo were genuine, former urban development minister and Mapusa MLA Francisco D’Souza on Saturday said he was, however, unsure what had compelled him to red flag the problems now.
The senior BJP leader also said Power Minister Nilesh Cabral was the most competent person among the 40 MLAs to handle mining and therefore, the ministry should be given to him.
“The issues of mining and unemployment are definitely genuine. I don’t know why he (Lobo) is raising the issue now. He may have his own reasons,” Francis said to The Goan.
When asked whether the Calangtue MLA was in touch with him, Francis responded in the negative.
Further, the Mapusa MLA said that generally when a minister was removed, an MLA from the same taluka was given preference for the new post although there were no compulsions.
“But a big taluka like Bardez should have got representation. In fact, the biggest two talukas in the state “ Bardez and Salcete “ has no representation of BJP,” he said.
According to Francis, Cabral should also be handed with the mining portfolio because he knows the subject very well.
“Cabral is knowledgeable and he knows about mining. So, he should be given a chance. It should be given to a person who is dedicated. He knows the reality,” he said.
He said demanding for an ordinance on mining now was not appropriate as the winter session of the Parliament was due in November.
“Manohar Parrikar has clearly said necessary laws will be passed. Asking for an ordinance so close to a session is not advisable,” he opined.
