Mining operators must be held accountable

Aug 17, 2016 Letters

Dear Editor,
With reference to your news headline dated 14th July 2016 captioned “Mining deaths warrant investigation and prosecution. Commission of Inquiry into the death of eighteen-year-old Reynold Williams on 29th May 2016 at Mowasi.” As a mining advocate and President of the National Mine Workers’ Union of Guyana, I unwaveringly support the call for investigation and prosecution across the mining districts shared by Joe Singh who heads the COI into the pit cave-in that led to the death of eighteen-year-old Reynold Williams.
The time has come for mining operators to be held accountable and face the full brunt of the law. The land lords of the mining industry have been getting away with murder for far too long. Mining workers’ lives do matter too. I urge the government to fast track a “MINING COURT” that was promised, and the restructuring of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission that is badly needed right now. Some powerful miners who are found to be guilty of not adhering to safety and health regulations, should have their licenses suspended and in some cases revoked.
The continued deaths of mining workers are of great concern for the National Mine Workers Union, which is seeking to bring a voice and effective representation to the voiceless mining workers across the mining districts. I urge the Ministry of Natural Resources to consider the appointment of a “MINING POLICY ADVISER”; there is need for some changes that will see the eventual end of lawless mining.
Some unpopular mining policies which serve as a disadvantage to workers need reviewing. There seems to be little or no adherence to safety and health laws by miners which the National Mine Workers’ of Guyana is urging strict adherence to. GGMC must ensure that employers have their workers be in possession of a mining privilege which is required by law and be signed by employers or their agents.
The National Mine Workers Union of Guyana urges the GGMC to consider moving across the mining districts to hold workshops and seminars, or support organization or groups to educate workers on their responsibilities as mining workers, and to bring awareness and the benefits of safety and health practices. Unless or until mining operators are held accountable for their actions, lives will be continued to be lost due to a framed mind-set by some employers that money is first then safety is after.
Sherwyn Delano Downer

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