In a development that has sparked mixed reactions, the Ministry of Natural Resources has suspended a mining permit granted to the Arnaputa Neighborhood Democratic Council (NDC) in the North Rupununi.
The decision follows rising concerns from regional officials, residents, and environmental groups about the potential impact of the mining operation on the local environment.
Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, addressed the confusion surrounding the permit, clarifying what many had assumed to be a special concession for a Brazilian company.
“There is a misconception that a special mining permit was granted to a Brazilian investor or company.
“I want to make it clear that our Mining Acts prohibit medium and small-scale mining operations by non-nationals,” Bharrat stated.
Bharrat explained that the permit had, in fact, been granted to the Arnaputa NDC itself, which had partnered with a Brazilian investor. However, this partnership was in accordance with local laws, which allow Guyanese miners to team up with foreign investors in the small and medium-scale sector, as long as the permit holder is a local entity.
The controversy surrounding the mining permit first came to light after the Arnaputa NDC wrote directly to Bharrat, requesting approval for a mining operation. The council, led by its chairwoman, expressed a desire to generate economic opportunities for the community. In response, Bharrat visited the village and engaged with local villagers and leaders, where, according to the minister, “most, if not all, of the persons present were in favour of the mining operation.”
However, the situation took a turn when nearby villages, upon learning of the permit, voiced their strong objections. The communities in the surrounding areas of North Rupununi were particularly concerned about the potential damage to the environment, particularly the impact on freshwater sources and wetlands vital to local livelihoods. Bharrat acknowledged that the overwhelming opposition from these surrounding villages played a significant role in the decision to halt the mining activities.
“Almost everyone that spoke at the meeting was against the mining in the North Rupununi, citing concerns about freshwater, fishing, and preserving the vital wetlands,” Bharrat said, noting that the government respects these concerns. The minister added that President Ali had instructed him to meet with the wider community in the region, which ultimately led to the suspension of the mining permit.
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