Forensic examination weavers for Expenditures 2, 4, 5

Local Government and the Ministry of Regional Development are currently working on the methods for a forensic investigation to recover monies invested on some projects undertaken by three administrative regions. This decision was made following the findings of the 2019 Auditor General’s Report which revealed that Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) failed to achieve the goals of their respective projects.
Speaking to DPI, Minister Nigel Dharamlall said the ministry will be writing to the Auditor General soon to request an inquiry as soon as possible.
“We believe that some projects that have been abused and mismanaged, lack a better description. There was huge corruption in some of these projects. One that comes to mind very quickly is the land use project in Region Five between the period 2016 and 2019; over $ 90 million was spent on it, but less than $ 1.8 million in return. ”
In 2018, Region Five established a model farm to boost its economy with training opportunities through work-study programs for high school students.
The Regional Ministry intended to introduce the model farm in three phases over a 13-year period as funding was provided.
Since its inception on leased state grounds in Naarstigheid, West Coast Berbice, Minister Dharamlall said the farm has provided agro-supplies to schools and hospitals. He also sold his products through various initiatives. However, he added that it is unclear how the administration operated the farm at a loss, when it also employed 28 people.
“An investigation must be carried out to find out exactly what happened to the money donated. So wherever the chips fall, I think we will pursue that blame, ”he said.
Going forward, the Ministry will put systems in place to ensure accountability and transparency.