“Govt requires highest standards of integrity” – Dr Singh tells GRA staff
Senior managers of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) have been charged to ensure the highest standards of integrity are maintained in their service to the public.
Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance Dr Ashni Singh said it is all the government expects.
Dr. Singh met the senior officials during a re-familiarisation tour of the revenue body today.
“We expect as a government the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the revenue administration. That is the charge President Irfaan Ali has given to his Cabinet and that is the charge that we are mandated to convey to all entities within our respective sectors. President Ali’s Government has no tolerance for corrupt behavior. And I want to say that in the most emphatic way possible,” Dr. Singh told the agency’s staff.
The Senior Finance Minister said much has been said occasionally about particular sections within the GRA that have problems with integrity. He said the administration has been trying to grapple with the problem but added that “more needs to be done.”
“You are to ensure that your staff understands that there is no tolerance for corrupt behavior. Harassment of tax payers, harassment of importers or others trying to conduct their business will be condemned and dealt with in the harshest possible manner.”
Dr. Singh said the issue is a matter that “we feel strongly about at the highest level of Government,” while adding that any violation of the law and the code of ethics of the GRA must be dealt with condignly.
Prior to his engagement with the staff, Dr Singh formally introduced the new Chairman of the Board of Directors Mr. Sasenarine Kowlessar.