Halt to new river mining licences…Severe threats to livelihoods, environment prompted decision – Govt.

Constant complaints by Amerindians and other groups led to government’s decision to halt the issuance of any new mining permits for river claims.
According to Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, there are several health and other environmental risks associated with river mining, and hinterland riverain communities are also under threat facing a loss of livelihood.
Many communities also depend on the waterways for food and even for drinking water.
While the almost 4,000 river mining operations will continue to be allowed, there will be increased monitoring, the official said in a press conference on Friday.
http://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/2012/07/08/halt-to-new-river-mining-licences%E2%80%A6severe-threats-to-livelihoods-environment-prompted-decision-govt/