The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) plans to call in the police on workers who are “known” to be “in collusion with powerful forces” for the execution of illegal activities.
One of the illegalities mentioned today by GLSC Head Trevor Benn is the theft of documents that have since found their way into the hands of Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.
Benn said that persons in high office are undermining the Commission’s efforts to stamp out corruption that enjoyed a free rein under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration.
He said that it is “irresponsible and reprehensible when senior personalities corrupt our staff to seek to gain political advantage.”
Yesterday, Jagdeo displayed several maps depicting large areas that were distributed by GLSC. Jagdeo sought to convey that there was a massive land grab scheme.
Today, the Commission cleared up what it referred to as misinformation peddled by Jagdeo.
While Benn said that he was concerned about the misleading information, he also expressed equal or even more concerns about the fact that the documents were “stolen”.
Benn said that the documents in Jagdeo’s possession are only supposed to leave the commission if purchased. He said that there are no records of any payments being made for the documents.
Benn told the media, “It is against our HR Policy for staff members to be divulging information that they may come into contact with during work. Staff members who are found to be in breach of this policy will be condignly dealt with.”
Benn continued, “It is no secret that we are operating in a very hostile environment. Some of our staff members are known to be in collusion with powerful forces to take control of the land and we are not going to allow it to happen, at least, not under my watch.”
The GLSC Boss asserted that the operations of the Commission under his watch remains aboveboard and can withstand scrutiny. “At the Commission, we exercise zero tolerance for corruption and our record speaks for itself. However, unfounded allegations of corruption continue to be levelled against me. I challenge anyone to come forward with evidence that would implicate me in any corrupt activity.”
Benn said that while he can vouch for himself, he cannot do the same for the entire staff of the commission.
“As you are aware we went through a period in this country when you had to have a connection to get anything done or you had to pay huge bribes. Anyone who thinks that this will just disappear overnight cannot be a serious person. So, it remains a constant ball for us here to root it out and root it out we will.”
