Dear Editor,
As the Ministry of Natural Resources continues its engagements with the mining bodies representing the various categories of miners, it welcomes the Manifesto for Mining published by the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and the National Mining Syndicate. The document outlines eleven areas of importance to miners and the government which are being addressed.
Yesterday, the Minister of Natural Resources Hon. Raphael Trotman concluded scheduled engagements with the Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMO) and the National Mining Syndicate (NMS), constituents of the troika of associations representing miners. At these series of engagements an agreed approach to collaboration on advancing the mining sector was determined.
Of the matters outlined in the miners’ document, it is important to note that the MNR, and by extension the Government of Guyana, continues to address all mining issues, and have over the years made necessary steps towards ensuring not only that mining is done to the nation’s benefit, but that miners and their requests are respected, considered and accommodated.
Specifically, the MNR has continued to advance the Minamata Convention towards the phased reduction of use of mercury and elimination, where feasible, in all activities, and remains committed to exploring alternatives. Currently, demonstrations of use of some equipment have been ongoing by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), and the three recognised mining associations -the GGDMA, GWMO and NMS.
Further, understanding the continued issues regarding access to interior locations, the Government of Guyana has been able to advance the rehabilitation and maintenance of numerous hinterland roads to the tune of over $4 Billion.
On a related note, the MNR in 2018, recognizing the need for a single, comprehensive planning document for the mineral sector, successfully completed a consultative project for the design and publication of a 10-year strategic development plan for Guyana’s mineral sector; the National Mineral Sector Policy Framework and Plan 2019-2029. This policy is being implemented.
The Ministry continues to cater to those dependent on mining activities, and will continue to work towards ensuring that all are able to benefit. Further, the Ministry acknowledges the challenges that present themselves, and continues to urge those within the sector to remain committed to working with us as we aim towards the sustainable development of the sector. The Ministry thanks the GGDMA, the GWMO and the NMS for their continued contributions towards the sector and hopes to remain working with both bodies towards the sustainable exploration, utilization and development of our nation’s patrimony.
Yours faithfully,
Stephon Gabriel
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Natural Resources
