Even as the National Toshaos Council issued a call for the government to drop charges against miners found mining in the Kaieteur National Park, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon on Friday defended the government’s move to clamp down on illegal mining in the protected area.

Mr. Harmon said while several workers were arrested for the illegal act, it is the desire of the government to also meet with dredge owners and managers to discuss the matter.

“It is unfortunate the residents of the area are the ones were arrested and brought out but there are no exceptions,” he said.

He lamented that there will be no exception in dealing with persons who engage in illegal mining, especially in the protected areas.

Harmon reminded that the Kaieteur National park area is part of the protected areas system of Guyana, according to the 2011 Protected Areas Commission A.

He explained that the area was clearly demarcated, includes some Amerindian communities, and this is the second operation to expel illegal mining in the area.

According to Harmon, other sustainable forms of livelihood are permitted in the area but mining and other extractive activities should not occur in protected area.

“We have a responsibility to ensure illegal miners are removed… the last occasion a policeman lost his life,” Harmon reminded in reference to the police officer who drowned while heading to the location last year.

He was stern in his call for those responsible for illegally mining in the area to come forward.

“Dredge owners and managers should come to the government and talk because it is not the way to go,” he added.

The State Minister also asked miners who claim to have permits in mine in protected area to approach the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission to have the issue sorted. He said no such permits should exist since mining in protected areas is strictly prohibited.

He said any license for mining in protected areas is unlawful.

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