AN interim Commission of Inquiry (CoI) report into the death of gold miner, Keon Wilson was on Wednesday handed over to Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman.Rear Admiral Gary Best, who is heading the inquiry, noted that gathering evidence for phase one of the Report was a challenge.

The Commission is tasked with investigating and examining the circumstances which led to the collapse of a mining pit at Rock Creek, Puruni, Region Seven that resulted in the death of Wilson on October 8.

According to Minister Trotman, Best indicated that though he had good cooperation from the mining officials and officers, gathering evidence from some regulators was a challenge.

Despite the difficulties, the Commission completed their investigation of the lower staff and regulators and will now move on to gathering evidence from the operators and upper management of the mining operation.

Earlier this week, operators were invited to present evidence to the Commission, but no one turned up.

“If they do not turn up to the next hearing an arrest warrant will be issued and we’ll have them arrested and placed before us to present their evidence,” Best said.

He also noted that the Commission is hoping to hand over its final report by month-end.

Minister Trotman said the report is vital in minimising deaths in the mining sector.

“Every death in the sector is taken personally… it is hopeful that there will be no more mining deaths and if there are, enquires will be held to get down to the bottom of it,” he stated.
According to statistics, since 2006, more than 120 mine-related deaths have been recorded in Guyana.

There have been six deaths so far this year, and according to reports, the constant neglect of occupation, health and safety practices is among the leading causes.

The Ministry of Natural Resources is working with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to ensure safe mining.

“We need to find nuggets of good on how they can bring reforms to the industry… the gold industry is taking off and we are expecting the highest declaration in the history of our country,” Minister Trotman said, but he noted that human safety must be a top priority.