THE Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment yesterday facilitated an engagement between the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners’ Association (GGDMA) and the Isseneru Village Council and other neighbouring villages.

The initiative followed a meeting with President Donald Ramotar and Natural Resources and the Environment Minister, Robert Persaud, where the Isseneru Village Council discussed a court ruling prohibiting the council from having any control over its mining rights.
Members of the Council and the GGDMA exchanged views in a frank and friendly environment regarding issues of mining within Amerindian communities, and other matters. Also present were Commissioner (ag) of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and other senior staff.
During discussions, village leaders highlighted the need for increased monitoring by the GGMC and alleged that staffers of the Commission are in collusion with miners in breaching the mining regulations.
As such, Minister Persaud has instructed that the GGMC mount outreaches to Amerindian communities to provide clarity on issues of mutual concerns, to conduct monitoring and ensure compliance of the mining regulations.
Meanwhile, all parties agreed and recognised that there is need for intensified dialogue and other forms of engagements among all stakeholders.