GFC summons underperforming forestry concession holders to urgent meeting

…warns of possible revocations

Forestry Concession holders with low production levels and outstanding acreage fees have been summoned to attend an urgent mandatory meeting with the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), with the possibility of revocation, suspension or non-renewal of their concessions.

According to the notice from the Commission, which was reposted by the Natural Resources Ministry on January 6, this meeting is schedule to be held on January 14 at GFC’s Multicomplex, Kingston Georgetown.
This notice applies to small concession holders whose production in 2025 and years prior fell below five per cent of their quota as well as large concession holders whose production was ten per cent and less of their annual allowable cut for the same time span. The GFC stated that they will conduct a revision of the performance of these concessions and will take the necessary and appropriate actions, including revocation, suspension and the non – renewal of concession agreements. Concession holders who were delinquent in acreage payments will also face similar measures.
The commission emphasised that attendance to this meeting is mandatory and that any required individual who fails to be in attendance will have enforcement measures being taken against them. On Tuesday, Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat, met with the agency heads and all managers. In a post on the Ministry’s social media page, it was stated that Minister Bharrat remains steadfast in his approach to management and firmly believes that engaging directly with staff contributes significantly to productive management and improved professional morale. The post stated that Tuesday’s meeting sets the benchmark expected for the year and encourages all managers to lead by example, lead with dedication and to aim for improved efficiency and efficacy to ensure that the GFC provides optimal service to all stakeholders as they continue to safely and effectively manage Guyana’s forests and the forestry sector, by extension.