The Delta State Local Content Agency Bill, 2019 on Tuesday passed second reading on the floor of the State House of Assembly.
The proposed law makes it compulsory for companies and contractors operating in the state to engage fifty percent of its workers from within the state.
Opening debate on the Local Content Agency Bill, the Majority Leader, Hon Tim Owhefere said apart from creating jobs the Agency has the mandate to help prospective investors source for skilled manpower from among the locals.
He said the bill if passed would ensure that companies contribute to the development of the host communities and the state.
Hon Owhefere pointed out that anyone who goes contrary to the law would be sentenced to six months imprisonment with an option of one million naira fine.
Also speaking in favour of the bill, the member representing Oshimili South, Hon Pat Ajudua, Bomadi, Oboro Preyor, Ika North East, Anthony Elekeokwuri, Warri South West, Emomotimi Guwor, Uvwie , Solomon Ighrakpata, Isoko South 2, Ferguson Onwo, Udu, Peter Uviejitobor, Burutu 2, Ekpotuareyin Pullah and Ndokwa West Charles Emetulu described the bill as apt.
They argued that the bill when passed would ensure peace between host communities and companies, explaining that the bill has also made provision for the companies to train locally sourced manpower to take over from the expatriates if the need arises.
The bill passed second reading following a unanimous vote by members.
The bill has been committed to the house Committee on Environment, Oil and Gas to report back on 4 February 2020.
The House also received nominations from Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the position of Chairman and members of the reconstituted Delta State Sports Commission.
The nominations into the reconstituted Delta State Sports Commission were Chief Tonobok Okowa, Chairman, Reverend Omatsola Williams, member, Chief Chinonye Dafe, member and Ernest Eweto, member.
They will be screened on Tuesday, 28 January , 2020.
Also to appear before the House on Tuesday next week for screening is Chief Lucky Ekalama who was nominated as member of the Delta State Judiciary Service Commission.
The House deferred for the committee of the whole the Delta State Judiciary Fund Management Financial Autonomy Bill, 2019.
The House has adjourned sitting to Wednesday 22nd January 2020.
