Minister for Natural Resources submits draft Local Content Policy to UNDP Representative
Minister for Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat
Kaieteur News – During a virtual meeting yesterday, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat presented Mr Jairo Valverde, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), a copy of Guyana’s Draft Local Content Policy. The Minister also used the opportunity to hold further discussions about ongoing support in the areas of local involvement and strategic planning for the natural resources sector.
Minister Bharrat said that the UNDP has been very supportive of the Government of Guyana and the work it has been doing in the oil and gas sector. “As such, we see UNDP as a partner in the development of this new sector, which is expected to grow exponentially over the next few years,” Bharrat expressed. He was keen to note that the government will work on its legislative agenda, as well as focusing on institutional strengthening, capacity building, and local involvement. These are all areas for immediate action to support the rapid growth of the oil and gas industry, said the Minister for Natural Resources.
In addition, Minister Bharrat highlighted that the Government’s legislative agenda will be developed to maximize benefits from the oil and gas industry for all levels of Guyana’s workforce. However, it must be done in a transparent and consultative way that will lead to strong policies and legislation, the Minister concluded.