The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has called for greater collaboration between miners and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) in order to improve mining practices.
“For the industry to continue to survive and thrive, we see the need for more collaboration between miners and the GGMC. GGMC is not only a regulatory body, but was also formed to assist miners in the fields, to help them mine smarter, safer and more environmentally friendly. The GGDMA would like to see greater commitment from the GGMC in supporting the development of the gold and diamond mining industry using similar approaches that currently benefit the agriculture sector,” Vice-President of the GGDMA Andron Alphonso said at a Mining Week activity recently. A copy of his remarks was provided to Stabroek News.
Alphonso pointed out that there are technical extension services offered to farmers by way of research, farming efficiency and technical advice for best practices, among others. “The mining industry needs similar assistance as it relates to mining matters. We believe this will also work to change the view of GGMC staffers in the fields as policemen to colleagues and technical advisors. In so doing, this will foster a spirit of camaraderie and cooperation,” he said.