GLSC launches project to harmonise information system

The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) on Tuesday officially launched a project under the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) Direct Assistance Programme.
The project is aimed at harmonising the GLSC and the Guyana Forestry Commission’s (GFC) forest and land information system to provide legal assurance, transparency and create compliance verification capabilities between the two Commissions. It aims to develop an enabling environment that fosters efficient and effective provision of land information in support of the EU-FLEGT.
The 12-month project has been approved for grant funding amounting to US$49,900 to support the enhancement of the capacities and information systems necessary to ensure the legality of timber harvested on leased State Land that overlap with Forest Areas’ Concessions, for GLSC to effectively contribute to the

Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) process.
At a simple launch of the project at the Commission’s boardroom, Commissioner and Chief Executive of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, Trevor Benn expressed the need for more inter-agency collaboration nationally.
This, he said, is necessary for fast-paced nation building. “Agencies must work together, if we are to get results, good results, in a timely manner,” The CEO noted.
Benn expressed the Commission’s gratitude for the resources provided for the project but observed that it is inadequate. “As a result, the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission is pledging another, US$200,000 for this project”, Benn announced.
“This is a clear demonstration of our commitment, not only to this project, but the development of our nation as a whole,” He posited, adding that the project in the long-term will see the country benefiting significantly. “We see the importance of this project, and it is coming at an opportune time, we believe it is very important for our country and we are committed to see it is well executed.”
Local FAO representative, Reuben Robertson, during brief remarks also outlined the need for the two agencies to work together, especially to share data. “These two agencies complement each other, and therefore it is imperative that you work together, not only for this project but other similar ventures,” he said.
Chairperson of the GL&SC’S Board of Directors, Paulette Henry also spoke of the need for inter-agency collaboration, adding that the GL&SC is committed to working with its sister agencies on projects that will benefit and aid in the development of all Guyana.