Investigation launched into breach of forestry laws

Georgetown, GINA, September 25, 2007.

Government remains committed to maintaining transparency and fairness in the operations of the forestry sector to ensure further sustainable growth, guided by the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC).
This was highlighted today at a media briefing during which Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud revealed that an investigation has been launched into the breach of forestry laws by several forest companies.
Based on monitoring and further investigations by GFC’s Internal Audit Unit, there is preliminary evidence suggesting that several companies may be guilty of (a) under-declaration of forest products harvested, to the GFC and (b) giving false declaration as to the origin of forest produce harvested.
“The breaches, if verified, will have implications for GFC’s revenue, tax concessions issued to companies by the Government, and GFC staff members at the locations,” Minister Persaud said.
            The current investigation is being conducted by the Internal Audit Unit and several senior officers of the GFC and will result in the preparation of a detailed report to be presented to Minister Persaud by October 10.
At this stage, the investigations are being done by GFC but if the findings confirm the breaches, other agencies such as the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) may be involved.
Although the preliminary evidence points to a few companies, the investigations will focus on a complete audit of all companies operating in the forestry sector and if the findings are confirmed, maximum penalties would be instituted in accordance with the forestry laws.
This, according to Commissioner of GFC James Singh, will depend on the severity of the situation and may involve revocation of licence to operate, suspension or monetary fines.
            Government has constantly placed emphasis on enhancing monitoring of forestry operations to ensure compliance with the necessary regulations and guidelines set by the State and enforced by the GFC. In this regard, more forest stations have been established at areas such Port Kaituma, Charity and Annai while another is being set up at Kwebanna. At present, there are 21 forest stations across the country that are staffed with GFC officers to conduct 24-hour monitoring of forestry operations within the respective location.
            Additionally, various regulations have been developed to ensure better operations by all stakeholders including loggers, saw millers and holders of concessions. GFC has been working with these stakeholders to ensure compliance and capacity building through a series of workshops, consultations, training sessions and field visits.
            Over the years, government has been updating policies and laws relating to the forestry sector. In 1996, a National Development Strategy was drafted. This provides guidance for the development of the sector by identifying national development objectives and constraints.

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