Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment Robert Persaud says there has been a 23% increase in gold production, and an increase in declaration and sales while exports are at 314,000 ounces.
A Government Information Agency (GINA) report said gold production was just about 207,000 ounces over the same period last year. “We have seen declaration and sales going up, sales to the Guyana Gold Board as well as to the private dealers,” Persaud is quoted as saying.
Gold exports were recorded at about 314,000 ounces, which is significantly higher than that recorded over the same period last year. “The sector is recording good performance,” Persaud said, noting that it has added to the economy and national growth by creating jobs in hinterland communities.
Meanwhile, the ministry continues to work towards setting up a mining school and has entered into a number of bilateral agreements in this regard.
Last week it engaged in talks with a representative from the University of Texas, Geo-Sciences Department which is looking to provide support towards the realization of the school. The objective of building a school is to provide the specialised skilled workers needed to support and propel the expansion taking place in the sector.
“There is a lot of preparation taking place and we do hope that very soon we will be able to make available programmes at the school,” Persaud said. He added that the ministry has been engaging local and international specialists to ensure that input is up to global standards and also meet the national requirements of the mining local industry.
