Last week’s article completes our discussion on the conservation and management of our forest resources and the procedures in place for the protection of our environment. Both areas are covered by legislation, namely the Forests Act 2009 and the Environmental Protection Act 1996 respectively. The Forestry Commission was established to administer the former while the administration of the latter is the responsibility of the Environmental Protection Agency, both of which have been created by special Acts of Parliament.
Today, we look at three important matters making the news in recent days: the “Trusted Trader” programme; the functioning of the Integrity Commission; and access to information.
“Trusted Trader” programme
The “Trusted Trader” programme announced by the Ministry of Business has generated some degree of controversy as to whether or not it can lead to increased corruption at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) as well as preferential treatment to some businesses. The programme is