It is clear, he said, that the difficulties in the industry "for some 25 or more years now have come to another head," adding that it is a very trying and testing time when all concerned should assess the situation in light of the history of the bauxite industry.

In so doing, "We will be in a better mind to think about ways to make for a better future," he told residents at a meeting at the Bermine (Berbice Mining Enterprise) Workers Club.

The Prime Minister, who has overall responsibility for the mining sector, and a high-level team comprising Head of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Mr. Robeson Benn; Chief Executive Officer of Bermine, Mr. John Lewis; Head of the Privatisation Unit, Mr. Winston Brassington; and Mr. Odinga Lumumba, flew into the area yesterday for a first hand assessment of the situation and to talk with residents.

The Government Information Agency (GINA) said he acknowledged at the lively and interactive session that there are real problems in the overall bauxite industry, specifically at Kwakwani.

"It is not a question of the People's National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) versus the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), or the Prime Minister, Government or the ruling PPP/C not liking the people of the area or the region and spiting them.

"There is no such question. And the earlier we put that kind of 'tomfoolery' behind us, the sooner we are going to solve our problems and build a good future for our people", he said to applause from sections of the audience.

Also at the well-attended meeting were union officials, including Mr. Lincoln Lewis, and former PNC/R Parliamentarian, Mr. Phillip Bynoe.

Prime Minister Hinds and team were on their arrival briefed by Bermine managers including Mr. Aubrey Bender, Site Manager at Kwakwani, before touring community facilities which included the Kwakwani Hospital, power plant, schools and the market.