Assin Nyankomasi-Ahenkro (C/R), Nov. 12, GNA - The Financial Controller of FABI-BRM Wood Processing Company based at Assin Nyankomasi-Ahenkro in the Central region, Mr. Noble Y. Adonoo, has appealed to the Government to grant the Company a timber concession to enable it to function effectively.

Mr. Adonoo made the call after conducting newsmen round the factory last Friday.

The visit followed an appeal by the Assin South District Chief Executive, Madam Millicent Alice Kuranchie, to the Government for a concession to promote the operation of the company in the area. During the inspection, it was discovered that the average number of logs in stock could not keep the factory running for even one week. Mr. Adonoo admitted that the Company's workforce, which stood at more than 800 in 2004, had been reduced to 350, adding that, the management of the firm was prepared to resume the three-shift system it was operating to employ more workers as soon as the raw material situation improved.

He told the GNA that some workers were retrenched in November, 2004 and confirmed Madam Kuranchie's statement that the Company was biggest employer in the area, which provided the highest revenue to the District Assembly, adding that, should the Company fold up it would 93deal a devastating blow to the assembly=94.

The Financial Controller stated that the company's application for a concession was already at the Ministry of Lands and Forestry for consideration.

Mr. Adonoo appealed to all well meaning people in the area to support the call for the granting of a timber concession for the company to feed the factory with raw material to enhance the operation of the factory. He said the factory was now operating two shifts as a result of the raw material problem facing the company.