Georgetown, Guyana (June 7, 2016)-On Saturday June 4, 2016 the Ministry of Natural Resources held its mid-year sector review of the Ministry’s work programme, and the Agencies which fall under its purview, namely: Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Guyana Gold Board (GGB), Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Parks Commission and Protected Areas Commission (NPC/PAC) and the Wildlife Management Division (WMD). Present at the meeting were Minister of Natural Resources Honourable Raphael Trotman, Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Honourable Simona Broomes, Permanent Secretary Mr. Joslyn McKenzie, Chairpersons of Boards and Commissions, Heads of Agencies, Technical Officers and other team members who collectively reviewed the progress of 2016 work plans, highlighted lingering challenges and formulated solutions.
In his opening remarks, Minister Trotman encouraged the team to go beyond what is required and strive for a standard of excellence as they do the work of their agencies which will reflect on the sector as a whole. In addition to affording a panoramic view of the Natural Resources sector, the review allowed for a comprehensive look at successes as well as areas where adjustments need to be made so that agencies can stay on track and achieve their goals for 2016. Among the successes noted was the steady progress being made to reach annual gold declaration targets for 2016, as well as the significant strides of the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) towards completion of its 2016 activities including the rehabilitation of the National Park and the Botanical Gardens.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of the work carried out by all agencies, discussions were also had about ways in which the Ministry of Natural Resources can provide support to enhance synergies and strengthen interagency collaboration to move key processes forward that will help achieve the goals of the sector. At the end of the meeting several actions were proposed and tasks assigned to move forward.
The Ministry of Natural Resources remains committed to improving outcomes in the natural resources and environment sectors and will continue to share its plans and progress with the public.
