–  Minister Persaud expresses government’s appreciation, continued support for a viable mining sector
AS gold production continues to surpass historical production targets, Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud has expressed congratulations to the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) as well as small and medium scale miners.

According to statistical records of the Guyana Gold Board, local gold declaration has surpassed 416,000 ounces. Minister Persaud stated that this is a signalled achievement for the sector which will set the bar high for gold production and declaration in 2013.
“I commend the GGDMA for imploring all of its members to ensure that targets set are surpassed. I’m confident that this number will increase before the year ends,” said the Natural Resources and Environment Minister. It is anticipated that declaration for 2012 could surpass 440,000 ounces as the GGDMA expressed its commitment to the minister to increase declarations before year end.
He also expressed the government’s appreciation and continued support for a viable and sustainable mining sector.
Further, the minister took the opportunity to also congratulate the GGDMA on its 30th Anniversary and its achievement of this milestone for the gold sector.
Meanwhile, during a press briefing recently, Minister Persaud pointed out that the sector will continue to see an upward production trend as large scale mining operations are conducting prospecting work with the intention to commence mining in 2013/2014.
The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and other relevant stakeholders will continue to work together to increase gold recovery through improved technology according to a statement from the ministry.