Director of the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) Dr Marlan Cole has been removed from that post and reassigned within the agency.
This removal, which is being seen largely as a demotion, took effect immediately.
It was indicated to Dr Cole in a letter, dated Friday, March 25, following a meeting with Permanent Secretary of the Health Ministry, Malcolm Watkins, that morning.
According to the correspondence, “I am writing to inform you that a policy decision has been taken by the Administration of this Ministry to re-assign you laterally within Programme 6 to lend technical support to the Director of Standards and Technical Services”.
Dr Marlan Cole
“As was discussed, Administration requires you at this juncture to work closely with the Director to assist with the capacity building of the Department of Standards and Technical Services, with particular focus on quality control,” the letter detailed.
Dr Cole was also informed of some of the duties that he is expected to perform in light of his re-assignment and the general expectations of the Administration. It was noted too that other related duties may be assigned to him as the need arises.
The former Food and Drug Director was instructed to meet with the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Narine Singh, and the Director of Standards and Technical Services to further discuss his scope of work, the specifics of his new role and the activities to be undertaken in that regard.
Moreover, he was also ordered to ensure the smooth transitioning from his post at the helm of the Food and Drug Department.
“You are also directed to undertake a seamless and comprehensive handover of the operations of the Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department to Dr Narine Singh, Chief Medical Offcer (ag), which should include all work assignments and properties of the Government of Guyana/Government Analyst-Food and Drug Department. It is imperative to note that all terms and conditions of your service remain the same,” the correspondence from the PS stated.
Dr Cole has been employed at the Health Ministry for over 20 years. He has been a fixed establishment employee since 2013.
