Despite the numerous challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented, Commissioner Newell Dennison believes that the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has been doing a satisfactory job in carrying out its functions and has announced that the entity is now offering some of its services online.
Dennison told Stabroek News that the pandemic has affected various functions of the agency with most of the effects being felt at the beginning. Despite this, he said, the agency has been able to maintain its presence in mining areas and has worked on mitigating the issues caused by the pandemic.
Thus far, GGMC has automated several of its application processes. This includes the application to operate a dredge and other specified machinery. According to Dennison, under normal circumstances, this process would’ve taken two months but now, a person can get approval within five days. Miners can also renew their licenses, permits and claims online.