Urging a new and inclusive response to COVID-19, the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) yesterday said that the continued promotion of the mining industry above national health interests by shielding it from restrictions pertaining to the virus grows more questionable.
“What more evidence does the National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) need to conclude that COVID-19 outbreaks are linked to mining activity? Gazetting of lockdowns in hotspots like Aranka (Region 7) (radius of 10 kms.) and Moruca (Region 1) two weeks ago contrast sharply with the decision of the South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) to lock-down 21 villages as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak. Had the SRDC, for example, been supported three months ago when they blocked access to mining vehicles, they may not now be faced with COVID outbreaks in at least three communities. Similarly, had authorities in Moruca been incorporated into planning at an earlier stage, they would have been better prepared to counter the reportedly casual attitude of community members”, the GHRA said in a statement.
