Latest update December 11th, 2024 1:33 AM
Latest News
Why are we petitioning ExxonMobil when we are supposed to be demanding?
Dear Mr. Editor,
I was appalled and left in a state of concern after reading a story in the Stabroek News with the headline, “Harmon petitions ExxonMobil for help in city restoration efforts.”
A number of things jumped out at me: 1) Why are we “petitioning” ExxonMobil to help in the restoration of Georgetown, instead of “demanding” that the company does this as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts? 2) Of all the things that Guyana needs in preparation for the oil and gas industry, why are we “petitioning” for aid with the restoration of projects when we need aid in establishing oil-related learning institutions and programmes?
The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) lacks the funds to improve its Petroleum Division so that it can be properly equipped to manage the growing sector and the issues that come with it.
The Environmental Protection Agency is also in need of funds to build its capacity to carry out effective management and monitoring of the sector.
The Auditor General’s office is in serious need of funds to boost its auditing capacity and to carry out a range of environmental audits. These are all pressing issues or areas, which need the Government’s attention.
The APNU+AFC administration needs to get its priorities in order.
And most importantly, Minister Harmon needs to refrain from engaging with ExxonMobil, if the he or the government are going to continue to beg for “low hanging fruits” when it comes to corporate social responsibility.
It is time we start demanding what we deserve!
Mike Singh Sr.
Similar Articles
THE BLUNT OF THE DAY
Sports
Features/Columnists
Investment Committee’s mandate is financial not political
Peeping Tom… Kaieteur News- There’s nothing quite as uniquely absurd as when someone misinterprets their job description.... more
High-Stakes Bid for OAS Secretary General post
By Sir Ronald Sanders Kaieteur News- The election of a new Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS),... more
Weekend Cartoon
