Aurora Gold Mining introduces paid paternity leave for workers

Aurora Gold Mining Inc (AGM Inc) has introduced a new policy granting paid paternity leave to its employees, marking a significant step forward for workers’ rights in Guyana.
The decision comes after a series of meetings between the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning and AGM Inc to review the company’s internal systems and policies.
The Ministry, in a statement, welcomed the move and described it as a win not only for the men working with the company but also for their families, providing workers the security to spend meaningful time with their loved ones without fear of job loss.
The initiative aligns with the Ministry’s broader mandate to promote workplace practices that enhance employee efficiency while supporting their physical and emotional wellbeing. Paid paternity leave is widely recognised as an important measure for fostering family support and gender-inclusive workplace policies.
The Labour Ministry congratulated AGM Inc. on demonstrating continued commitment to employee welfare and inclusive employment practices, noting that such initiatives strengthen both families and the workplace.
The series of meetings, come after the Ministry launched an independent investigation late last year into working conditions at Aurora Gold Mines, following the circulation of several videos on Facebook.
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, had instructed the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department to launch a thorough and immediate investigation into the allegations showcased in the videos, which included claims of unsafe working conditions, wage disputes, and issues surrounding salary increases and fringe benefits.
Just last month, the Labour and Manpower Planning Ministry welcomed the signing of a two-year Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) between AGM and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), which was expected to result in significant wage increases and expanded benefits for hundreds of workers at the mining operation.
Effective January 1, 2026, all eligible male employees of the company will be entitled to one week of paid paternity leave. This benefit applies to employees whose child is born or legally adopted on or after January 1, 2026.
The introduction of paid paternity leave recognises the important role fathers also play in early childcare and family bonding. The policy is intended to support employees during a significant life milestone while promoting a healthy work-life balance, the company said Friday in a statement.
AGM is considered the first and largest operational gold mine in Guyana to engage in underground mining.