By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
Member of Parliament and Shadow Minister of Natural Resources Sharma Solomon has sharply criticised the government’s handling of ongoing safety concerns at Aurora Gold Mines, declaring that “attention without action is meaningless” as workers continue to operate under what he describes as unsafe and unacceptable conditions.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Solomon said the opposition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) stands firmly with Guyanese mine workers, particularly those at Aurora, who he says are facing a combination of unsafe working environments, stagnant wages, and official indifference.
According to Solomon, workers have repeatedly raised concerns about poor food quality, dust exposure, inadequate ventilation, unsafe access roads, and the absence of proper personal protective equipment. Despite these complaints and the completion of site investigations, he alleged that the Ministry of Labour has shown little urgency in resolving the issues.
He further criticised the government’s response, noting that even after inspections were conducted, senior officials publicly admitted they had not reviewed the findings. Solomon described this as a serious dereliction of duty that places thousands of Guyanese workers at risk.
The opposition MP said the dangers are not theoretical, pointing to the death of miner Joseph Licorice last year as a tragic reminder of the lethal consequences that can result from regulatory negligence.
In addition to safety concerns, Solomon highlighted growing worker frustration over stagnant wages, particularly in light of what he described as the mine’s significant expansion and increased profitability. He argued that workers are not benefiting fairly from the sector’s growth.
Solomon, who also serves as Shadow Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, stressed that protecting workers and supporting business investment are not mutually exclusive. He said a responsible government can and must champion safe working conditions and fair compensation for Guyanese workers while maintaining a climate that supports investment and economic development.
He concluded by urging the government to move beyond statements and inspections, and to take decisive action to enforce labour standards, protect workers’ lives, and restore confidence in regulatory oversight within the mining sector.
