Dear Editor,
As a mining advocate and President of the National Mine Workers’ Union of Guyana, I unwaveringly support the call for investigations and prosecution across the mining districts advocated by Maj-Gen (rtd) Joe Singh who headed the CoI into the pit cave-in that led to the death of eighteen-year-old Reynold Williams.
The time has come for mining operators to be held accountable and face the full brunt of the law. The landlords of the mining industry have been getting away for far too long. Mining workers’ lives matter too. I urge the government to fast track a mining court that was promised and restructure the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission which is badly needed right now.
Some powerful miners who are found guilty of not adhering to safety and health regulations should have their licences suspended and in some cases revoked.
The continued deaths of mining workers are of great concern for the National Mine Workers Union which is seeking to bring a voice and effective representation to the voiceless mining workers across the mining districts. I urge the Ministry of Natural Resources to consider the appointment of a mining policy adviser; there is need for some changes that will see the eventual end of lawless mining. Some unpopular mining policies which serve as a disadvantage to workers also need reviewing.
The union urges the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to consider moving across the mining districts to hold workshops and seminars to educate workers on their responsibilities as mining workers, and to bring awareness of the benefits of safety and health practices. Until mining operators are held accountable for their actions, lives will be continue to be lost owing to the mindset of some employers that money comes first and safety afterwards.
Yours faithfully,
Sherwyn Delano Downer
President
National Mineworkers Union
