General Comments from Consultations June - September 2015

GENERAL COMMENTS FROM CONSULTATIONS JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Cluster

Bartica

Bartica Bartica Bartica

Bartica

Kaikan Kaikan

Kaikan

Kaikan Kaikan

Kaikan

Kaikan Kaikan

Kaikan

Kaikan Kaikan

Kaikan

Campbelltown

Campbelltown Campbelltown

Campbelltown

Campbelltown Campbelltown

Campbelltown

Imbaimadai

Imbaimadai Imbaimadai

Imbaimadai

Jawalla Jawalla

Jawalla

Kamarang

Kamarang Kamarang

Kamarang

Kamarang Kamarang

Kamarang

Kamarang Kamarang

Kamarang

Kamarang Kamarang

Kamarang

Kamarang Georgetown

Georgetown

Georgetown Georgetown

Georgetown

Georgetown Georgetown

Georgetown

Georgetown Georgetown

Georgetown

Georgetown Georgetown

Georgetown

Berbice Berbice

Berbice

Berbice Berbice

Berbice

Karasabai

Karasabai Karasabai GENERAL COMMENTS FROM CONSULTATIONS JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Questions

As it relates to the GPS, would it become mandatory when the agreement is signed? Does this include titled lands?

Is it true that Amerindian harvesting timber on titled villages should pay at least 7% to the state?

For title lands, do you need a FLEGT Licence

Accessing funds for capacity building – For communities doing GPS, can we access funds on GPS training? We agree that FLEGT is for legal timber. We wouldn’t be exporting but selling to other persons who would be exporting, how can we benefit from this?

Concerning seizure of produce who does the fine goes to?

In terms of discrimination did you take into consideration religious persons? ( those who don’t work on Saturday)

Besides fulfilling the requirement for the EU, Is there is any penalty in the event of a breach?

Would exporters be sending the license or the issuing authority? Will the FLEGT license be issued only in Georgetown? Will there be a website developed to show who has complied with the requirements of FLEGT as a mechanism improve demand/access of

Would there be a clash with FLEGT and LCDS Can we cut wood from our farms which are located outside of our titled land areas?

Does all of the trees need to be registered or just a few selected species?

What does land area for conversion purposes mean?

Can we go about doing inventory of tree of titled lands?

Can we ship any amount of wood we want even though the LCDS is telling us to conserve the forest? Is there a time limit on the Agreement

Can we get a copy of the MoU with Norway? How does the FLEGT VPA safeguard against mining damages?

Would Shingles be covered? What happens under the VPA to the Amerindian areas without title and the people living there?

Does the 15 year old rule in the legality definition apply to mining as well?

Can my local health post assist in passing the indicator which deals with providing first aide facilities?

For those countries that have already signed the VPA have there been any similarities? Harvesting around creek how do we deal with that?

Is there 100% verification on the ground before the produce is shipped?

How long can you keep a produce to be shipped?

What impact would it have on the market?

At which point will the license be issued, At the request of the stakeholder or produce readiness?

Is the stakeholder protected by Forestry as it relates to payment from the EU buyers?

If you are selling to someone in the Caribbean who will be sending to the EU, do they need a license? Do we have a system in place to ship the lumber to the EU?

How long will the license be valid considering the shipping time?

Can a concession holder buy logs from another concession and export?

Tagging is something got the EU Initiative or it was something that was there all the time?

Size of the concession that will be given to the logger?

In the mining Industry person prospect areas does the same thing happen for the forestry operations?

Going on local marketing looking for wood but there is a short due to export. Is there a system in place for a % of the wood left on the local market for domestic use? Going on local marketing looking for wood but there is a short due to export. Is there a system in place for a % of the wood left on the local market for domestic use?

Do Forestry tell you where to find what?

As of now are we exporting timber to the EU

If you should find corruption what systems are in place to deal with corruption?

Is there going to be any training program for future exporters under the FLEGT Agreement?

How do we compare or distinguish between FLEGT with the Norway Agreement? The VPA, the last GFC we learn about REDD+ they are looking to reduce emission. If EU continues to buy we will never reduce emission. What is the nature of the VPA and EU?

Capacity wasn’t there in terms on monitoring mining, how does we guarantee monitoring when it comes to Forestry?

Is there any Law when it comes to Forestry?

What are the consequences if the license becomes void?

Did this organization meet with everyone?

What agreement did the others come up with? Is there any funding from the EU to the government of Guyana and is it related to LCDS?

What species of Lumber can we supply EU with?

Are they using Guyana, in terms of Guyana having the largest Jaguar and lily?

What quota is required by the EU Seeing we have the LCDS, if we would not as a country exploit more than what is set

When villages have to agree to supply the market, I saw in the document we have to pay royalties.

Are you saying that Guyana and the EU are in the negotiation stage or an Agreement has been signed?

Though we may not be involved in logging we can make recommendations Any deadline for the agreement?

Is Amerindian lands considered private lands?

If we want to do logging, the Village Council will have to do tagging?

What about communities that are not demarcated but have a valid title Areas that are savannah lands that are village. Can I apply for a concession out of the Savannah?

Do we have enough people to monitor what is happening in out areas? Even if we have they should be updated.

When the lumber is ceased who controls the illegal stuff? Who owns it legally?

What percentage of the Amerindian understands what is being said?

Even if we get the ACT understanding the ACT may be difficult Will the VPA subject stakeholders to a one off licensing as with the case of the EXPORT licenses or is there a renewal process for each export?

Will non EU markets require the FLEGT licenses?

How aware are the GFC Forest officers on ground of the FLEGT VPA process in Guyana?

Has Guyana been requesting certificates for imported timber, how do we keep abreast with those imports?

Can we add products such as NTFPs to the product list?

For logs being approved by GFC but rejected by buyer, can the tags be reused for new produce to be exported? In terms of tracking timber and movements without documents, how do we deal with produce coming from the forest on several transportation?

How will the VPA benefit us financially, will the market in Guyana be preferred over other markets as a result of signing onto the VPA?

What percentage of stakeholders input is there in the development of the documents currently being used for the VPA negotiations?

Legal piece of wood looks the same as an illegal, in such cases what systems will be put in place to distinguish between the two and ensure compliance?

Some Amerindians are accustomed to using poisonous substances for fishing ,this we know can cause damage to other underwater animals and people who utilize the stream ,What about the use of poisonous substance for fishing for traditional use ?

What is the difference between Amerindian and Indigenous peoples, what is traditional use according to the Amerindian /indigenous people?

Has forestry been approached by non-traditional people for the use of the forest produce apart from logging? In terms of land clearing and the practice of slash and burn by indigenous communities, what is the prevalence of this activity and how is this dealt with by the forestry commission?

For blocks being allocated for mining, there are times when trees are cut for traditional purposes without the permission of owners but has to be accounted for by the holders in terms of tagging, how do we deal with these stumps in cases where GFC would institute fines?

Can the GFC have more sessions to enlighten the stakeholders of the VPA so that better management practices can be employed by stakeholders?

Are there currently any restrictions for produce from Guyana to the EU market?

Who will be held accountable for third party negotiations when the chain of custody for a particular shipment that maybe confiscated by forestry?

What can the GFC do about third party agreements that have been breached for any particular export produce?

For the VPA is it possible for a third party to do verification checks for custody as outline by the COPS? Who issues a custody in event of FLEGT licenses being found to be tampered with?

How would the IFM deal with situation where there is un-verified logs found during their audit?

What will be the validity of the FLEG license

How will the VPA deal with breaches unearthed after a shipment has left the shores of Guyana?

What support measures are needed to ensure the systems currently in place are working and will continue to work?

In light of illegality occurring in the forest how can we ensure 100% verification? Mining is being done in forestry concessions, produce are without tags, traps are set when persons are leaving which is dangerous to others. How does forestry plan to deal with this? How are GFC officers on ground working with stakeholders to ensure the forestry is part of FLEGT IS working?

Seeking clarity on mining and forestry, when we mine loggers are taking quite some time to remove the logs of and as a result delaying our operation. Is there a timeline for the removal of the logs?

There are trees to be cleared by the miners on their concession can permission be granted to move those logs and take it to miller or sell?

When the International firms come into this country to do logging, Forestry or the Government has a contract, you have to put down a mill or something that would create employment for the people. Is it standing or do that happen in this country.

A large part of the EU is not part of the VPA based on the map shown, should we believe everything? Is it a similar case as with the Norway Agreement? Are we getting money from this?

Why big countries like US, China, Russia are not involved and just some countries like Guyana?

How can we benefit from the EU funds, why small loggers aren’t benefitting? In case of China, do you need a FLEGT License How will the system benefit us financially when we follow the VPA system? How much stakeholder input is drafted in the Legality Definition Is there any restrictions concerning our product getting into the EU market If the chain of custody is being breach who will be held accountable when a middle man is being involved?

In the event of a counterfeit license who will issue custody? If so are there any penalties? What sort of penalty would Guyana face?

How long does the license last for?

Would a FLEGT license cover a shipment or an order?

What happen when illegal timber is signed?

In the mining sector, forest is destroyed that can be sold, forestry have rules to govern this?

Is FLEGT concerned with quality?

If the Government can look into demarcation for Amerindians village land allocation due to FLEGT? If the Government can look into demarcation for Amerindians village land allocation due to FLEGT? GENERAL COMMENTS FROM CONSULTATIONS JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Comments

The Amerindian Act does not satisfy the people of Kaikan.

The Arau Village land is being carved up by the GGMC and issued as mining concessions on our titled lands. This issues needs to be looked into by the GGMC since we think this is unfair. Trees don’t grow as fast as other plants so FLEGT needs to respect this. GGMC should come on the ground before mining concessions are granted.

Minimum wage should be increased from 50,000GYD for interior regions given that the cost of living is higher in these areas.

We must all pay NIS, even as self-employed persons.

Safety gears; helmets and boots are okay other safety gears are heavy.

Depending on the situation gears should be worn accordingly.

Could GFC impose a condition where you must sell a % to the foreign market? Forestry purchase a percentage and hold it for a certain time but if it don’t sell it can be export and the money used for structural development. *Replicate Gold Board system(Consolidation Yard)

The would bring an impact on the underworld (those who try to smuggle illegal substances) All ACTS that would be necessary when it comes to FLECT.. Forest Act, Labour Law etc for communities

We want to hear their suggestion we can make an input

It is our interest as stakeholders to understand what is said. We should sign some agreement for the continuity of the workshop for those persons who doesn’t understand. Maybe after the workshop the rep of different communities come together and discuss things that we didn’t understand so we can go back with one message.

Our seniors are well informed and I feel disadvantage as youth even though I’m on the net every day I have never seen anything on EU FLEGT.

Young persons can be trained so they can come back and inform others in the villages? GFC can sponsor youth so they would be able to come back and assist the other in understanding Forestry. Funding isn’t available to send our youths to further their education. Even though we don’t do logging concessions are being given out. For example, when laws are being changed we are not involved we just hear about what happen and will happen, persons are given permission to mine

Interpretation of the ACT is what we have conflict with.

March 2016 – we want to initial the documents ( compiled documents)

March – Dec 2016, you will be able to make inputs

EU should establish some office to check to make sure no illegality happens

We know our boundaries and the people in the office don’t

Find the description on the legal title which should be with the plan. From experience, enforcement has the problem and not the law. Mining get into conflict with communities and no one enforces the law

Provide: Labour ACT, Safety and Health

Stakeholder can put pressure in terms of marketing to get the benefit they need to go down stream. We try to sell squares into China or India, it attracts 40% tax, we can’t have a one way trade and therefore the government needs to work and have the tax be removed or reduced otherwise that market is closed off to us. Lumber needs to be looked at individually, see what the lumber used for and what purpose and then apply the tax accordingly. Also if you are going to look at the Trade in China, the 20% tax should be reexamined and lowered giving us a chance to compete.

Every week in the year there is an article in the papers concerning overharvesting. The way to handle this is to get an International marketing team that understands forestry to walk the forest, let them provide the information. In terms of the loggers having a timeline, the loggers have a certain time to respond to the GFC as to whether he/she can remove the logs from the area before the miners go there. Once no response is given the miner are free to go mine and to either remove the trees itself or to park them in a corner where they can be picked up.

When an investor comes into this country, the first thing is that we advertise all units available. From advertisement the person would then apply completing with local persons who apply, when submitting an application they would submit a business plan. There is no requirement as to what that plan should entail but more often or not persons would include in their harvesting come component of value added operation. One of the thing we need to recognize most of these companies operate on the basis of a large acres of lands with a number of infrastructural works to be done, machinery that would have to be bought and investment like road construction. It is not expected when a TSA start operating that wny work will be done in the first year of operation, the first year is for planning and establishing themselves. More often or not the sector would

It’s an agreement between buyer and seller, Guyana has timber. It’s a trade agreement between the EU and Guyana Too much regulations can make a system weak

GFC and GRA can collaborated on the reduction of VAT on logs

GENERAL COMMENTS FROM CONSULTATIONS JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2015

Responses

It would be mandatory from Jan 2016 but is being implemented through a phase in approach where GPS training is being offered by FTCI. GPS requirement forms part of the WTS which forms part of the agreement and will also be mandatory when the agreement is signed. Titled Villages will also be required to do GPS readings. This has to deal with mining on the Amerindian title lands. Small and Medium scale miners can be charge 7% or less for the mineral mined from your lands. This not related to Forestry but deals primarily

Only when you are exporting to the EU you will be required to have a FLEGT licence.

The FTCI currently carries out training on GPS. You can make contact with the FTCI for such training. You may be able to access funds to improve the management system of your village as it relates to FLEGT helps to ensure that the benefits flow to the right persons. FLEGT will help to ensure that your system of management is working effectively and that every stakeholder who forms part of the supply chain recognize your rights as Amerindian People. There are support measures which will also seek to ensure that your systems of management of forests is improved so that through FLEGT you are able to GFC does not fine persons but a compensation is usually accepted if the stakeholder does not wish to take the matter to the courts. The fine goes to whomever has committed the breach. You may have done your part legally and then the next mat not have; that person gets fined.

That in my opinion may not be discrimination but the employee and employer can come to agreement where the employee is not paid for the day and works another day in the week if he pleases.

Besides not being issued with a FLEGT license, the penalties will be within the confines of the law. Please remember that all existing laws will remain in place which govern forestry operations even after Exporters will be able to send a copy of the FLEGT license to the importer in the EU. However the Issuing Authority (GFC) will send a copy of the license to GRA, and the EU’s Customs Authority. Currently as it is agreed, yes. Of course this can be modified once the system This is a good suggestion and will need to be discussed at the level of the NTWG.

No. EU FLEGT in Guyana was birthed from the LCDS and takes into consideration sustained yields and controlled/selective harvesting. These are in favor of the LCDS. Once these lands are considered traditional lands of the village the area can be used to harvest trees for subsistence (i.e. building a house in the village, canoe), not for commercial purposes. If the village would like to utilize the land for commercial harvesting of trees, they must first obtain prior approval from the relevant agencies

On titled Amerindian villages, an inventory is not required before commercial harvesting commences. This requirement is only for Large Concessions, Agriculture leases and Mining permits. The inventory for these areas will map; commercial species, potential crop species as well as keystone/protected species.

These area which will be converted to other land uses i.e. Agriculture and mining.

Yes. But as was said earlier, this is not a requirement by the GFC. If the village would like to take part in this activity as a means for determining what species are within the forest (for marketing purposes), the GFC can assist the village to inventorise the trees on its land. The cost of such activity will however be borne by the Amerindian Village.

Firstly, the LCDS and FLEGT should not be seen as two separate initiatives with two separate visions (i.e Conserve Vs. Exploit). The LCDS promotes SUSTAINABLE USE (which involves the mitigation of environmental, social and economic damages) while FLEGT promotes the curbing of illegal logging (which also involves addressing environmental, social and economic damages while supporting sustainable development). Furthermore, back in 2009 to present, FLEGT is seen as a key project which supports the mandates/vision of the LCDS. Additionally, through REDD+ (established under the LCDS), illegal logging is seen as a driver of deforestation and forest degradation. Therefore if we mitigate illegal logging we reduce deforestation and degradation thus contributing positively to the LCDS. FLEGT addresses the issue of illegal logging and thus helps to maintain a low rate of deforestation and degradation. This is the very premise on which both FLEGT and LCDS coexist and support each other. Even though you may feel that way, the Amerindian Act 2006 is currently the law of Guyana. If you would like to see a change in the law you (the village and all other villages which share the same views as you) will need to lobby with your subject Minister.

We will certainly inform GGMC of this and express your concerns in this regard.

No. There is no time limit on the Agreement. Some countries have signed the agreement for an indefinite timeframe while other countries have placed a time frame of 5 years with automatic renewal after those 5 years. Note, the Agreement can come to an end however if the EU or Guyana decides to suspend the Agreement. It really is up to to the two countries/parties to decide.

Certainly, this can be emailed to the villages’ central internet access point or a hard copy can be sent via airmail. The FLEGT VPA, specifically the legality definition takes into consideration mining lands and the harvesting of trees for commercial purposes on these lands. The LD details a list of requirements which mining permit holders will have to meet in order for their produce to be deemed legal. These requirements entail; safeguards for the environment as well as the people who work in the area. As a result of the VPA, these areas will be heavily monitored by the GFC and other responsible agencies to ensure that they are compliant with the relevant laws of Guyana as well as regulations established by the GFC.

At the moment, the VPA does not cover shingles but this does not mean that it is not a possibility for the future. Through the VPA, as Guyana improves its traceability system it will continue to negotiate with the EU to include additional products. The inclusion of other products in the future is possible through the VPA as it was designed to accommodate as much products as possible so as to have legality throughout the supply chain.

While this is true, it must be noted that FLEGT does respect this notion. As a matter of fact, the Annual Allowable Cut (which takes into consideration a predetermined cutting cycle), harvesting of protected species and the promotion of selective harvesting are all included as part of the VPA. This was done to ensure that areas are not deteriorated and left without the ability to properly regenerate over time. The people living in these areas will continue to do so and will still be able to use the land for subsistence just as they’ve been doing for ever so long. Since these areas are still considered to be state lands, the people in the area can come together and make a formal request to the GFC for the chance to carry out harvesting on a commercial scale if there is a desire by the people to take part in such a venture. Additionally, if the area is being considered for titling or extension, it will not be allocated as a concession or as part of a concession. Be reminded that other products can still be exported under the EUTR.

This point/concern is duly noted and will be presented to GGMC.

Yes this currently applies to all large and small concessions as well as mining and agriculture area. Reason being, this “rule” is actually the law of Guyana and can be found within the Occupational Safety and Health act of 1997.

While this may be true, your comment is noted. FLEGT is not in a position to negotiate the minimum wage as this is a Government decision which needs to be made at that level.

Yes. However, it would also help if the village council can make snake-bite kits and first aid kits available for persons venturing further away from the central health post or at least have enough at the point where commercial harvesting is occurring.

Agree. Under the NIS regulations. Every person must pay NIS, whether are an employee, employer or self-employed.

We have been able to look at those and improve on what we can. Note: every country is unique The GFC has a Code Of practice for SFPs which stipulate a buffer zone around the back of creeks where no felling can be done. Amerindian Villages do not have such a COP but efforts are being made by the GFC to draft one. For now, all felling near to creeks should be controlled at best as possible so as to ensure less damage to the water way.

Currently for Amerindian Villages, this is not the case. However through FLEGT maximum verification through monthly inspections will need to be done.

The exporter decides how long he/she wishes to keep the produce. The exporter must however keep in mind; the availability of the ship to transport produce, the request of the buyer to have the produce within a certain time and the validity time of the FLEGT License.

FLEGT will encourage more exports to the EU as timber covered under the agreement will be deemed legal. Additionally, FLEGT provides an easier access to the market by having all checks and balances completed in country as opposed to all the requirements needed for export through the EUTR.

Once produce has been verified as legal; compliant with the WTS and GLD it will be issued a FLEGT license. The request must first be made by the exporter to have his produce verified for export to the EU.

Its beyond our jurisdiction, the VPA is just creating the market environment for stakeholders to trade.

This question will be further discussed so that the appropriate answer can be given. Currently as it is, FLEGT license are only required from the partner country (e.g. Guyana) by the EU. All other countries will need to ensure and display that the shipment’s integrity (or legality) remains intact after they’ve received it. (E.g. compliant with national laws and regulations etc.) Guyana has about two (2) main shipping ports where wood is normally shipped all across the world. This has been the case for decades. Therefore a system does exist. All shipment going to the EU will be covered by a FLEGT License which will be recognized and verified by the Guyana Revenue Authority, Customs and Trade Administration to ensure the system maintains the integrity of the produce.

3 Months but there can be a 3 months extension granted by the GFC.

No, He can only export logs from his concession

It was something that was there all the time; the tagging system was set up since 2000 by Guyana.

Size varies depending on the nature of the operation

For large areas, an inventory must be done but for the smaller areas that isn’t always required. Concessionaire are given time to visit the areas to determine the level of stocking/ number of good trees available.

There are 2 Species we limit export on, Crab wood and Locust. If it’s dressed we allow it to be exported. We limited export of logs to who holds the concession

If there is a shortage, efforts are made to ensure that local market is adequately stocked. Of course there has to be a balance between what the local market will pay and maybe what you will earn from exports. There is general information available on where you would find certain species but you the stakeholder can ask for GFC assistance it getting a better understanding of what trees are available.

Yes, but under the EUTR which is really about the buyer making it clear what he wants the seller to present for legality.

The implications are significant. If something illegal leaves port GT and reaches the EU it makes the entire country look bad. EU is negotiating with the Government and not individuals. The system is brought under questioning.

Forestry has a training center which can be utilized at your request for training in different areas of forestry.

Activities must be done in a way that reduce emission from deforestation and forest degradation under the Norway Agreement while EUFLEGT tries to eliminate illegal logging which will aid in the overall protection of the forest. EUFLEGT does not say we have to sell the timber and cut more trees; it says if you want us to buy your timber it must be legal.

Even under REDD+ harvesting is still taking place. The elimination of illegal harvesting is a good thing in this regard.

Understand that the GFC does already have a system to monitor the forest and how it is used. This system will be used as the base and built further depending on the level of monitoring we may need under the VPA.

Yes, the Forest Act is one. There are other laws which also have an impact such as the labour laws.

Before the shipment leaves, a license is logged with the EU and one go with the shipment. If it becomes void, then a decision is taken and a new one may be issued

Yes we are talking to everyone; those directly and not so directly involved in forestry.

Again the comments matrix which I will give to you will help you to see what the comments are made over the last few years. Of course once there is, clear understanding, you can make your comments as well.

We will continue to talk to you over time. We have been here before and have received inputs from your people. Many of them are not here. We want continuity and we have made some provisions for this which we will discuss later. This sounds like a very good idea and of course we can also clarify key areas if not understood.

Yes there is some funding on FLEGT and FLEGT related projects. This is not directly related to the LCDS although some of the monies are coming from Norway.

Mostly tropical hard woods which has traditionally has a good place on these markets. What they are looking for is still open. What we are trying to do now is promote lesser used species as well and make the market accesible to all Guyanese.

For the EU it’s all about promoting the trade. As I indicated, FLEGT is simply making the path to trade easier. How much trade happens over time is controlled by many factors.

On that note you should ideally visit the GFC website where there is a lot of information which can be found on the process in Guyana

The EU does not set any quota, it’s the GFC who works out your quota and you cannot cut more than was calculated. There are checks to ensure you do not over harvest as well. Again you need to remember that the LCDS never says to stop cutting. WE are allowed to harvest up to a certain limit. FLEGT simply allows us to access the EU market within the same cutting limit; in other words we can chose to sell our product to another market. We will not over harvest. Please remember our laws say we cannot over harvest.

We have manage community lands and we have never paid royalties.

Once lumber/logs are for sales according to the regulations royalties have to be paid.

We are still negotiating, we don’t want to tell the EU we are doing “X” and we are not, hence nothing was signed and all the documents are in draft stage. You will also have a chance to see the document which we are going to sign and be allowed to make comments.

You can make recommendations, note not everything is taken on board; there will be times where compromise will be on both sides. If not, we explain why it cannot be taken. You have to look at one law against another to make sure there is no conflict. Consultation must be done with the relevant stakeholders. The Government does involve stakeholders and FLEGT is one law where stakeholders are involved in its formulation from the very start. Since 2009 meetings were held with staekholders and this continues even now.

I understand that there are cases where how the law in interpreted varies; these will be discussed at the NTWG level and the relevant steps taken. Note that there are support measures which will be dealt with under the VPA and the clarification of what specific laws refer to is soemthing that may be done. The VPA documented is one document which will be explained to the all stakeholders before its approval.

when we initial the document, there is still the ratification process which has to be done on both sides. This can take a year in the EU parliament.

Note that there is an EU office here and they will play a role in monitoring the setting up the system. Once the system is set up, only periodic checks will be done. It is expected that the systems in place will function as they should. Ensuring the system works is Guyanas' responsibility

No. The laws defines private lands as separate from Amerdian lands. They are still your lands and the timber is to be used by you, however best you see fit. You still make the rules govering what happens on your titled lands

Yes they will. It’s the only way we can be sure of where the timber is coming from.

Communities have to be demarcated, what will be accepted is what is on the title document. Of course this is partnership approach and efforts will be made to work along with the viallges Yes, it actually happen e.g. Mainstay has a piece of state land. Under the state land we can’t cut bullet wood but on village lands we can cut any amount.

Good point. What makes this different is that the continuity of Guyana havinc access to the market is dependent on these laws being enforced; they will be mandatory.

There is a need for more human resources but this is also being looked at under the arrangement.

The produce is then in the custody of the state. The issue can be resolved by the court of an agreed compensation can be paid for the produce to re- enter the supply chain.

I do believe that there is greater understanding now that this session has taken place. Based on the questions asked, clearly there are many who are on par with what is being said and have made useful contributions already. Again as some of you indicated, many persons in times past did not return to communities with what they has learned and hence the process has not been as effective as it should have been. We have however spent more time with you and also made provisions to help you take the message back to your respective communities.

To get a full understanding make arrangement with the Chief Labour Officer and let them guide you. Again there are some basic areas where it may be possible to receive some funding for. Every shipment will require a new licence. Understand once the systems are working, obataining a license will be no problem.

Non EU shipments will not require a FLEGT licence, however some shipments may end up in EU markets that do not have FLEGT Licence, and this can be traced back to Guyana if requested by buyer. A FLEGT licences can then be requested.

Not as much as we would like them to be of course there’s always room for improvements. There are plans for similar sessions to be held in house to make officers more aware of FLEGT. One Such session will be at the FMD retreat in a few weeks time.

Systems are in place to deal with importation of the Timber in terms of certification, however, this is currently being looked at the level of the Guyana Revenue Authority.

Yes, more products can be added to the list currently being negotiated.

No tag can be reused for newly harvested produce. As , each tree is given a unique sequence of number that will be attached to the stump and produce , after being harvested, hence whatever is cut from that tree should carry the particular sequence of numbers, and this should not be replicated. During stump inspections these numbers are scanned into the barcode machine that is used by GFC. More than one trucks can be used on one removal or transshipment permit document , provided that that movement is in a convoy, or a trip sheet is issued in conjunction with a permit that allows for multiple transportations

The FLEGT licence will allow for stakeholders to tap into the European market which will otherwise be inaccessible without the licences .a market that will eventually become wider and more demanding.

All documents are as a consequence of stakeholders’ input, after consultations on current documents, amendments are made, and these changes are reflected in the matrix of comments that shows what comments taken on board and what were not and why.

Mechanisms employed by the GFC are the use of hammer branding, which carries a unique number, in addition to the spray paints for lumber. For logs the unique tag sequence is used via bar code scanner.

The use of poisonous substances for fishing by indigenous peoples is not a very prevalent practice, however, because of the effect it may have on other environs this practice will be looked at in greater details.

Yes, persons have approached forestry for uses such as fishery, charcoal, agriculture and tourism. This activity is not done on a wide scale, as a consequence its prevalence is not one that will affect forestry activities or impact forest in Guyana.

The normal procedure for this is for the Amerindian villages to write a letter of request to the GFC seeking permission to cut a named quantity for their subsistence use, GFC then issues tags for the required amount that is, provided it’s for non-commercial purposes.

Yes the GFC will try as best as possible to accommodate stakeholder’s sessions across the country on FLEGT.

There are no restrictions currently for the EU from Guyana.

GFC doesn’t get involved in third party negotiations, however, for confiscated timber the licensed holder will be held accountable for any confiscated produce.

GFC doesn’t get involved in third party agreements, however, if the need arises GFC can act as a meditator for the parties involved to resolve conflict should they require the assistance. Parties can and are encouraged to use written contracts before entering into any business ventures.

Yes it is possible for an independent party to do verification checks. GFC, currently involves third party verifications. The licencing authority where the discrepancy was unearthed will be the one issuing the custody.

That is considered as timber found adrift hence its will be considered state property

Each shipment will require a new licence.

Once the breaches are uncovered after leaving the shore of Guyana, those will be dealt with at its port of entry depending on what the breaches are.

Stakeholders’ as well as support will be most needed to ensure proper functioning of systems.

Though not equipped with the proper mechanism to ensure 100% verification, through our checks and balances and audits ,random sampling of each area is done that gives a good idea of what happens on ground. Of course under the VPA there are efforts to improve the systems; if there is a need to do more to give assurance of legality then this will be examined durign the implemenation period. First of all the Forest Policy of Guyana is not restricted to Forestry activities alone, it is multiple use meaning mining, agriculture, forestry, eco-tourism and a whole lot of activities depending on which can be allowed in a particular location. However, we recognize there must be some sort of harmonize use between competing or conflicting land uses. What we have done there is a land use committee that met last year under the Chairmanship of Mr. Andrew Bishop who was the former Commissioner of the Guyana Lands & Survey Commission. At that meeting we had the commissioners of GGMC, GFC, Lands & Survey, Central Housing and Planning and persons from the Ministry of Public Works where a paper was submitted to Cabinet concerning these conflicting and completing Land use and how well they can be harmonized. Prior to that there was a small committee chaired by former Minister, Mr. R. Benn which included a wide range of stakeholders as well and one of the suggestions that came out was in terms of the harmonized use the miners was be given 3 hectares of land to start their operations and has to provide to the GGMC with a sequence of operations/mining, once the sequence is made out and planned the Forester is then given that sequence operations and the forester has to decide whether he/she wants to remove the produces that is in that line or mining area. If the forester can’t remove it the miner is given the opportunity to remove the commercial species and sell or push them aside and the miner and forester work out some arrangement. You are reminded that GFC officers on the road are not there to just enforce meaning that, Stop every truck or check permits, they are there to provide service to you. At a particular location if you recognize some level of training or capacity building or completing documentation you can have the officer visit you for the day once you make a request and have whatever be attend to. I want to remind those individuals who are transporting forest produce in containers to make sure those containers are checked in transit at one of the 24 hour forest station and at any forest station during working hours if you are passing that station.

Forestry should be informed by the miner that they would be going there in advance , that would give the loggers time to go and remove the logs

There is a 2 week timeline.

If the logger is going to remove the trees, depending on the size of the mining area there is a definite timeline.

Thing to note, we are reinventing the wheel in terms of the system that already exist. We are selling the system we are currently have in place. It came out of the Norway agreement. The benefit is the market, to tap into the market as a country along with the system being creditable/recognized

We have a system in place that works, this was developed before FLEGT, if the market is here, it’s the same system we are taking to the market. Again FLEGT is an arrangement between a buyer and a seller; Guyana and the EU. Small loggers are beniffiting from EU funds as capacity building through FLEGT related consultation sessions play an important role in sensitizing stakeholders on correct procedures regarding forest operations in Guyana. Additionally, through the DFID funding scheme managed by the NTWG and a bi- lateral committee, all stakeholders will get an oppurunity to write proposals for projects that would No, the licenses are only for the EU. What will happen it will be processed and given back to you. Improving the business process. No system is perfect; improving your system improves your business. A lot of things done now can be made simpler While we can take everyone comments on board, we are using a matrix to determine why/not give reason why the comment is taken on board. Depending on the Country they will decide what document is required The legal document will have your name so you will be held accountable. The document will have your name, your concession number and license number. You need to ensure you put systems in place to ensure you are not held accountable for soemthing you did'nt do.

Once counterfeit, the exporter will be the one which is questioned regarding the authenticity of the License. Of course an investigation into the matter will be carried out by the issuing authority to ensure that such a license was not issued by the authority and to discern who has compromise the integrity of the licensing scheme. Penalities will be instituted for counterfeiting as recommended by the Law.

Currently the license will be valid for a period of 3 months with the potential for extension of an additional 3 months only on request.

The license covers a shipment even if the shipment comprises of many orders Illegal timber will not be allowed for export to the EU as the TLAS developed under the VPA will ensure prior verification of legality of the produce before export. All timber will firstly be verified for compliance with the LD and WTS before a FLEGT license is issued.

Yes, a COP is currentl;y being drafted for all mining areas to ensure sustainability and reduce deforestation and degradation.

Yes FLEGT is concerned with quality. Though the VPA itself does not speak to quality but rather legality, we rocognise that there needs to be efforts to improve the quality of the products we are taking to the market. The governments is currently looking into demarcation of Amerindian lands with agencies such as Guyana Lands And Survey, and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs. There is also the option to approach the GFC and get SFP/concession status in order to access the land for commercial purposes and ultimately be able to access the market. Demarcation, though ungoing, takes time. GENERAL COMMENTS FROM CONSULTATIONS JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2015

The point is also that the miner has the right to remove produce for their infrastructure works. Remember Forestry is multiple use, so if a person is mining they have 3 acres and they can go there are mine immediately without giving any notice. The can access any produce there to do an infrastructural works, they will then give notice of their current sequence of operation, with their current sequence of operation the loggers have the first to remove those trees. Loggers have the right to go remove the trees that the miners don’t want.