THE National Toshaos Council (NTC) has come out in support of the move by the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment (MoNR&E), through the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), to place a one-month hold on the processing of new applications for river-mining claims. In a press release signed by its Chairperson Ms Yvonnne Pearson, the NTC commends the MoNR&E for the position it has taken in light of the current gold rush, and has dubbed the one-month suspension of new applications a positive move towards helping to regulate activities in the mining industry.
The NTC says the move will doubtless facilitate implementation of improved control mechanisms between all stakeholders for reinforcing and adhering to sustainable practices to be employed in the mining industry.
“The NTC is aware of complaints being made by stakeholders on some of the negative impacts of river mining. It is therefore our humble belief that such a resolution is necessary in order to address the issues in the mining sector, and the concerns of all stakeholders, including the Amerindian communities.
“This temporary suspension will give us, as stakeholders, time to review environmental concerns, and to work with the authorities on a structured way forward”, the release opined.
Calling on all miners to adopt a disciplined approach, and to adhere to all regulations, the NTC said this will allow  a collective resolution in regulating  activities in the mining industry.