The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has said that the steep drop in gold prices coupled with high production costs along with a litany of other problems has made 2014 a struggle for survival.
According to the group, it has also been struggling with marginal ore bearing lands; inefficient ore recovery technology; poor maintenances/repairs to hinterland roads and airstrips; non-financing for the mining industry from commercial banks; closure of branches of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB); poor or minimal security/ police outreach for mining districts; the non-presence or unqualified representatives; under staffing and the inefficiency of the Mines Division at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC)which has seen the industry battling for survival.
The association has met with various government agencies, including the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment,