HIGHLIGHTING the importance of mining to Guyana’s economy, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, on Friday, handed over to the National Mining Syndicate (NMS) its constitution at a launching ceremony held at the Umana Yana, Kingston.
“Mining is a part of the socioeconomic fabric of Guyana, and its tapestry. Miners, mining and the resources extracted are, in our view, the cradle of this economy,” Trotman said as he delivered remarks at the launch.

He encouraged the members to stay focused and continue to abide by the law.
“I encourage you always, members of the syndicate, to focus on the original intent of those who brought it into being. What will you intend to achieve from it in the future? We expect to engage well with you, and with the national body, we ask as you abide as you have been doing with the laws and regulations of the land. We ask that you make your contributions to the national reserves by selling your gold to the Gold Board and not to any of the other entities,” Trotman said.

NMS President, Cheryl Williams, commended the document as a big stride in the development of mining.

“This ensures that we are effectively and meaningfully represented in all mining districts. [We are] working towards a safer and more efficient and sustainable industry focusing on sound environmental practices that will assist in preserving Guyana’s rich biodiversity and ecological corridors, which includes wildlife, waterways and forestry,” she said.
She took the opportunity to implore for equality in the industry.

“Today on behalf of all miners of the syndicate, I humbly ask that you treat us equally. Please consider that we are all member of the syndicate. The syndicate is a government pilot project that will serve and benefit all of Guyana,” Williams noted.

The NMS Constitution regulates the operations of the NMS outlining the body’s objections, policies, and duties. It also speaks to the role of members, the privileges and responsibilities of NMS and the roles and functions of the executives.

The National Mining Syndicate comprises 16 smaller syndicates from different parts of the country. Each syndicate is mandated to pay two per cent of their earnings to the National Syndicate, which in turn is used for the benefit of all, even though many of them are still at the prospecting stage.