Latest update March 12th, 2026 9:56 PM
‘Lifeline for small miners’ – Govt extends deadline to regularise dredge licences
(Kaieteur News) – Government has granted a one-month extension to allow mining operators additional time to become fully compliant with dredge licencing requirements, following representations from the Small Miners Association Guyana Inc. (SMAGI).
In a notice issued on Monday, miners were informed that the extension would give operators more time to complete the necessary documentation and regularise their operations without undue pressure. SMAGI encouraged miners to use the grace period wisely and ensure full compliance within the extended timeframe.
Chairman of the Small Miners Association, David Daniels.
The announcement followed a meeting between miners and authorities over the weekend, during which concerns were raised about the challenges many operators face in meeting the new regulatory requirements within the original timelines. Chairman of the Association, David Daniels, confirmed the extension in a video statement, saying miners were informed after what he described as a successful engagement.
“After a successful meeting on Saturday, we were informed today that a one-month extension was granted to minors within by an industry to have their licence renewed after we came together as one in unity to show solidarity that what is important to us in the mine industry to ensure that livelihood must be protected,” Daniels said.
He explained that the extension would allow miners to submit outstanding documents to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to ensure they are operating legally. “We were informed again that one month extension was granted so that all miners will be able to take in their documents to GGMC to ensure that they get their licenses. Our objective at the small miner’s association is to ensure that livelihood are protected,” Daniels said.
According to Daniels, the association’s primary objective is to protect livelihoods while ensuring miners comply with the law. He urged operators to take advantage of the additional time to regularise their operations and avoid disruptions to their work.
He also said efforts are being made to ensure GGMC offices are operational across the country, allowing miners to submit documents within their respective districts rather than travelling to Georgetown. He added that the association will continue to advocate for improved access to services, including the presence of the Guyana Gold Board in mining districts, and encouraged miners to apply for traders’ licences to purchase gold legally.
The extension comes after SMAGI formally wrote to President Irfaan Ali on January 19, 2026, requesting a three-month amnesty period from January to March to allow small miners to update records and meet new regulatory requirements without penalties. In that correspondence, the association expressed support for improved governance, transparency and environmental responsibility in the mining sector, while noting that many miners face practical challenges in complying within the existing timelines. SMAGI said its proposal was intended to ensure no miner is unfairly disadvantaged or forced out of production while attempting to comply with the new rules.
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