Dear Editor,
Transparency Institute Guyana Inc (TIGI) is asking the Government why Dr Vincent Adams, the head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is being sent on leave before he decides he can.
We see no reason for removing our best qualified person for reasons other than misbehaviour, especially when ExxonMobil wants to release reservoir water into the ocean instead of injecting it into the wells. Unless there are secret considerations, it is not as complex as they make out. The reservoir water does not have to be treated any more than already provided for under the present environmental permit. It is also for Dr Adams to decide on the Payara approval permit. We have no confidence the EPA can make those decisions without him. This agency needs more and qualified staff to execute their mandate according to law. We would be more confident if Dr Adams is there also to interview the candidates.
The country must be prepared to accept any costs to stop this and any flaring. Those who are enjoying the prospects of oil wealth should have been prepared to pay for the consequences.
Yours faithfully,
Alfred Bhulai
TIGI Director
