As part of efforts to resolve outstanding issues between the Ministry of Natural Resources and the National Mining Syndicates body, and build confidence in the relationship between the two entities, the Ministry sponsored an observatory mission to the Parish Peak, Upper Demerara area on Saturday, October 28, 2017.
Members of the team that visited included Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Raphael Trotman, Ms. Shondell France, Ms. Luanne Nero of the Guyana Forestry Commission ((GFC), Ms. Tamara Gilhuys and Mr. Kareem Parris of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Land Management and Mines Division respectively, Mr. Roy Kingston and Mr. Renwick Solomon of the National Mining Syndicate, Mr. Vasquez Ramdas of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), and Mr. Calvin Bernard of the Technical Committee Rapid Assessment of the Upper Demerara Area. The mission allowed All, and especially, syndicate representatives, to have a firsthand look at the situation on the ground.
The visit was suggested by Minister Trotman at a meeting held on September 7, 2017 after concerns were repeated about the Minister’s refusal to permit mining in the area which was previously declared as “reserved” because of its rich and unspoiled biodiversity. Further, members of the Berbice Mining Syndicate had alleged that there was mining already taking place in the area; despite the insistence of the Ministry that this was definitely not so.
The flight route covered areas including Checkpoint, Camp Charabaru, Bridge, Cannister Falls, Northern Block Start and Southern Block Finish, the Makari Mountains and river and the Kuruduni River.
At its conclusion, all parties unanimously agreed that indeed there were no mining activities currently happening in the area and that it is indeed in pristine condition and should remain so. Minister Trotman reaffirmed that the area will remain as is unless otherwise directed by Cabinet or the Head of State.
The Ministry of Natural Resources remains committed to supporting miners in their quest to pursue mining in adherence to the laws and regulations that govern the sector and will continue to resist efforts designed to breed distrust and frustrate the positive steps that are being made.