It’s been a pillar of Jamaica’s economy for decades. We’re talking about mining.
The sector has at times sparked controversy because of issues of environmental protection and sustainability.
Nonetheless it continues to be a major source of foreign exchange.
Most Jamaicans usually associate mining in Jamaica with bauxite – only. That may well be with good reason. For decades bauxite has been Jamaica’s red gold.
That aspect of the sector however has been in decline due to the temporary closure of JISCO’S ALPART refinery.
In fact, the mining and quarrying sector declined by 37 percent in the January to March quarter relative to the same period last year. But there are bright sparks in the industry literally just waiting to be unearthed.
One mineral with potential for growth and expansion is limestone.
Despite the slowdown in the economy due to the Coronavirus, COVID-19 pandemic Lydford Mining Company was able to continue its operations and send a shipment of calcium carbonate to the United States.
The product will be used in the food and pharmaceutical industry.
Lydford Mining operates out of St Ann Mines and processes high purity limestone products.
One of its directors is Jackie Millington, stay tuned to hear what she has to say.
Mining Minister Robert Montague would certainly agree with sentiments expressed regarding the significance of the sector. He outlined the progress and prospects during his contribution to the sectoral debate in Gordon House on June 2.
