Mining land dispute between Tasserene Village Council and Michael Bacchus

Dear Editor,

The core objectives of the Small Miners Association Guyana Inc (SMAGI) are to advocate for equal opportunities for all small miners and also to advocate for the continued protection of the rights of minority groups including Indigenous communities affected or may be affected by mining related activities.

On the 23^rd March 2023, the SMAGI was invited to the Tasserene Village, Middle Mazaruniby Mr. Alvin Joseph – Toshao, Tasserene Village. The request was made as a result of an ongoing land dispute between the Tasserene Village Council and Mr. Michael Bacchus, mining landowner.

Subsequently, on the 26^th March 2023 myself and Ms. Sonia Daniels (Secretary) visited the area to assess the situation. When we arrived at the Issano Landing, there we met with and engaged Mr. Alvin Joseph, Mr. Roland – Deputy Toshao, and other Village Council members.

The SMAGI team along with the Deputy Toshao and other Tasserene Village Council Members then visited the disputed land where we met Mr. Michael Bacchus. Myself, Michael Bacchus

and the Deputy Toshao took a position on our separate GPS and it was confirmed that Michael Bacchus Mining Block Gs8: B-1048/007/17 is located within the Tasserene Village land Reservation.

After engaging both parties separately and highlighting the benefits of collaboration and compromise. Mr. Michael Bacchus indicated his willingness to settle the matter. This decision was endorsed and signed by the Toshao Mr Alvin Joseph and the Tesserene Village Council a financial payment and future percentage to be paid to the council.

SMAGI was elated to facilitate the negotiations and is happy that an amicable resolution was attained by all parties involved. This is in keeping with the mandate of our organisation as we strive to see the removal of barriers and the continuous development of the mining industry in Guyana.

Yours truly,

David Daniels

Chairman SMAGI