Georgetown: The Ministry of Natural Resources is calling on miners, particularly those operating large concessions, to work in an environmentally-friendly manner by ensuring safety and adherence to the mining regulations.
This call comes following a visit to the Konawaruk area, Potaro Mining District #2 by Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes and a team from the Guyana Geology & Mines Commission (GGMC) on Saturday last.
The team was disturbed by the obvious damage that is being done to the environment due to mining activities being carried out in the area. In one instance an excavator operated by an employee of a large mining company was seen pushing material from the land of the Potaro River into the river. The bank of the river has already been destroyed and there is no buffer zone, as is required, but the excavator was making preparation for a land dredge to become operational.
The Ministry calls on miners to be more responsible while urging the large-scale operators to set examples for smaller miners in observing best practices. Miners are also reminded about the reclamation process. All holders of large-scale mining are asked to lead the way in this process and ensure that the area is restored following their mining activities. This is important as Guyana moves towards protecting its environment.
Meanwhile, during the visit the team also received several complaints from miners about the actions of the supernumerary constables employed by mining companies. The Ministry is well aware of the security concerns of miners and their resort to employing such constables, but it is also concerned about the complaints received from small miners who alleged that they are at times threatened with guns. In other instances, small miners complained about their equipment being destroyed and their camps overrun.
After listening to the miners Minister Broomes advised them to take photographs and video recordings of such actions and to report the incidents to the Guyana Police Force
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