Consultancy contract to be awarded in coming weeks – Trotman

Restructuring of GGMC

Government is forging ahead with plans to restructure the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the consultancy contract for this major move will be awarded in the upcoming week.
This was confirmed by Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, while addressing the gathering at the entity’s 40th anniversary celebrations on Wednesday evening.
He stated that the restructuring initiative is to “realign” the Commission with its core functions while preparing it for a future where the environment, conservation and sustainable extraction of the country’s mineral resources have to be “carefully balanced”.
The decision to restructure the GGMC is a decision that was made by the Cabinet sometime last year and is now being implemented.
It is expected that the person/agency that is awarded the consultancy contract will examine the functionality of the GGMC in view of its evolving role, particularly in the area of the green agenda, complaints about mining, and because of the emerging petroleum sector.
Last month, when asked about staff changes, the Minister said he could not preempt the outcome of the review.
“This is why we have called for proposals to advise us. This is not about personnel; it’s about the vision for the entity in the future. I believe once we get the vision then the second step would be the personalities or the personnel to fulfil that vision. It has to do with the role of the Minister, the role of the Board, the role of the management and average worker,” Trotman had earlier explained.
Shortly before the 2015 General Elections, GGMC announced a revamp of its systems in the mining sector following numerous complaints, particularly as it relates to mining claims which were secured by Chinese firm, Bai Shan Lin.
The Minister had explained that GGMC has faced numerous challenges and obstacles in executing its duties and authorities are still grappling with strengthening the “internal” efficiency at the Commission.
According to Trotman, through the utilisation of Information Technology (IT), tools will aid in the Commission’s continued progress through digitising the process of making applications and managing the grant prospecting and mining permits.
“This will make for a more efficient and transparent process of land management…these contributions have not materialised without challenges and obstacles but, we have seen, the GGMC overcame them and we remain confident that it will continue to do so… I believe that the gains we have made so far are important pillars that ensure that a firm foundation is set for the growth and development we envision in the industry over the next forty years.”
Additionally, he noted in light of a request by the GGMC Commissioner, Newell Dennison, staffers attached to the GGMC will be receiving an increase in their salaries retroactive to January 1, 2019.