GGMC to introduce digital database to advance operations

The mining sector in Guyana is modernising with the help of digital technology, and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) will use digital storage to advance its operations.
This was disclosed by GGMC’s Commissioner, Newell Dennison, at a recent awards ceremony.
“The GGMC has accepted that IT and other forms of technology must be our aid and we have been examining process flows to improve efficiencies, linking databases and pursuing continuous capture of data in the digital formats,” he noted.
Commissioner Dennison said once the data is properly structured, it will become a treasure trove for the mining sector, adding that with the continued production in large-scale mining in gold, diamond and bauxite, the sector is well positioned for transformation.

The GGMC Head also said the mining industry has done extremely well, especially with support from the Government and collaboration with the private sector.
“So far, what I have observed is a healthy and strategic alliance forged, all with the underpinning objective of bringing growth, development and wealth to this ever-evolving country,” Dennison posited.
In addition, Commissioner Dennison said the consortium involved in the construction of the artificial island at the mouth of the Demerara River should not go unnoticed since it is a first for the mining sector and the country.

Partnering to advance mining
Meanwhile, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has reiterated its commitment to collaborate with the Government in order to further enhance the mining sector.
The Association’s President, Andron Alphonso, shared this position during Monday’s ceremony.
“Guyana is moving ahead rapidly and we must innovate or we will be left behind. This is why we are keen to work with the Government to continue to explore novel approaches for our sector,” Alphonso expressed.
While noting that Government support is imperative, Alphonso commended the Administration for its current efforts in transforming the sector.
“Guyanese miners must become large-scale miners. We must answer the call of the Government to work together in greater partnership to develop the industry domestically, and to ensure that we can develop similar capabilities as our large foreign counterparts,” he stressed.
The GGMC and Ministry of Natural Recourses were also recognised for funding the cost associated with the acquisition of the riverine mineral recovery system as well the assistance provided to the technical service unit of the GGDMA.
Government, since August 2020, implemented several measures aimed at bringing relief to miners and advancing the sector, in keeping with its manifesto commitments.
In May 2022, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo met with the GGDMA at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, following which the Government announced several measures.
These included the reduction of final tax from a maximum of 3.5 per cent to 2.5 per cent which resulted in an estimated $1.4 billion being returned to the mining industry, and the removal of the 10 per cent Tributors Tax that benefitted thousands of workers in the industry with $300 million returned to those who were paying this tax.