Persaud snubbed advice against New River survey grant

Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment Robert Persaud had been strongly advised against issuing the controversial New River Triangle surveying permit to Muri Brasil Ventures Inc over the security concerns.

This disclosure was made even as two former army chiefs confirm that the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) over the years would object to any exploration activities in the area, in keeping with government policy.

But an observer close to the ministry said Persaud nevertheless ignored the advice that was given by a statutory agency and went ahead with the granting of Permission for Geological and Geographical Survey (PGGS), which includes a clause that virtually guarantees the company up to 18 prospecting licences.

Leader of the Opposition David Granger yesterday said that President Donald Ramotar as Chairman