Dear Editor
The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association [GGDMA] welcomes the tangible results of its meaningful consultation with the Government of Guyana on Budget 2018. The readjustments to the current fiscal regime will provide a solid platform for the further development of the local mining industry.

Special thanks to Ministers’ Jordan, Trotman, Patterson, and the Commissioner General of the GRA, Mr. Godfrey Statia for accommodating the many frank and informed discussions in the interest of the small and medium scale miners of Guyana. The GGDMA also acknowledges the strong role of the Guyana Women Miners Organization and the National Mining Syndicate that partnered with the GGDMA during these negotiations.

The Miners United Movement will continue to tackle national mining issues with vigor and respect on the basis of valid data and sound science. It is encouraging that government recognized the valuable contribution of mining to Guyana and made decisions based on an inclusionary approach. The GGDMA and our NGO Mining partners look forward to continued fruitful negotiations with the Government of Guyana on matters of importance to mining nationally

Regards
Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association