The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has issued a cease-work order to dredge owner Everton Daly, who operates the mine where Keon Wilson was killed in a pit cave-in last Saturday.
A source close to the GGMC told Stabroek News that the order was issued after the cave-in and would stay in effect until the end of the ongoing investigation. Since the accident, the Ministry of Natural Resources has ordered a Commission of Inquiry into the death of Wilson.
Meanwhile, Newell Dennison, head of the GGMC, declined to speak on the issue when Stabroek News approached him.
Wilson, 33, of Ann’s Grove Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, was working with others in the pit at Rock Creek, Puruni, when it caved-in.
A release from the Natural Resources Ministry said it would be launching the Commission of Inquiry “to fully investigate the matter, to recommend actions to be taken in the event of any negligence and to prevent a recurrence.”
The ministry has expressed concerns over the persistence of unsafe practices by mining firms.
Over the years the GGMC has been educating miners on safe practices to not only prevent accidents from happening but also save lives. However, breaches of mining regulations are still commonly found at operations.
In its release, the Natural Resources Ministry said it would be hastening plans for the deployment of wardens who will have law enforcement powers to better police the sector. The statement also reminded miners they can access guidance, training and other support to miners to improve safety practices in the field, through the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and the Mining School.
