The future of mining in Jamaica must be focused on the benefits and the development of the communities in which mining takes place.

This is according to the Opposition Spokesman on Mining and Member of Parliament for Manchester Northwestern, Mikael Phillips.

Speaking yesterday, at the Mining/Minerals sector conference in Mandeville, Mr. Phillips said for too long, host communities have not benefited enough from mining in the way they ought to.

He noted further that the sector needs an urgent reset, as it is reeling from several challenges.

Mr. Phillips proposed that a national consultation be undertaken on the future of the mining sector.

He said this consultation should examine the growth of the sector, in addition to the associated environmental and health issues.