GFC says forest export procedures being manipulated - Commission staff culpable

http://www.guyanachronicle.com/news.html#Anchor-----------27442

GFC says forest export procedures being manipulated
- Commission staff culpable
Guyana Chronicle, 31 July 2007

THE Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) yesterday said it has evidence
which suggests that some of its workers are colluding with exporters of
forest produce to manipulate set procedures.

The Commission said it is currently conducting an investigation and
will take the necessary action against both staff members and
stakeholders found guilty.

The GFC is advising all exporters of forest produce that they must
adhere to the well publicized procedures governing exports. These
include being licensed to export and ensuring that all forest produce
to be exported is first graded by a certified timber grader.

In addition, the GFC said an application to export should be made 48
hours prior to export, with the Commission doing a verification against
the Timber Marketing Certificate.

The GFC said payment of the necessary revenues to the GFC where
applicable is also one of the procedures that must be followed.