The Maroons are urging the government to examine alternatives to mining that will bring greater benefits to the people who live in the Cockpit Country.

Colonel of the Moore Town Maroons Wallace Sterling, who spoke on the Africa Forum this morning, says there are too many issues that cannot be corrected if mining takes place.

Residents and environmentalists have been protesting against mining in the Cockpit Country although the government has said no mining will take place in the area designated as the Cockpit Country protected area.

Questions have also been raised in some quarters about the designated area.

Colonel Wallace reiterates the Maroons position, that no mining should take place in the Cockpit Country.

Colonel Wallace says the issue of mining in the Cockpit Country is one that should be discussed with the people.

He says mining will not benefit residents.