by Kurt Campbell

Most sweet 16 birthdays would see the handing over of flashy gifts especially jewelry. But when it comes to the Guyana Revenue Authority, the gifts of pieces for the hands and head are not from the local jeweler.

On the same day that the Guyana Revenue Authority is celebrating its 16th Anniversary, the United States Embassy in Georgetown handed over a number of pieces of equipment to aid its enforcement activities.

The equipment, which included helmets and handcuffs, were handed over by Ambassador Perry Holloway to Finance Minister Winston Jordan at a simple ceremony at the GRA’s Camp Street Headquarters.

Over the last 16 years, GRA’s Enforcement Division has been tasked with the responsibility of going after persons who try to defraud the tax system through smuggling and contraband.

There have been complaints of little or no safety gear being provided to the officers who carry out the risky operations.

The GRA management recently announced plans to ensure that enforcement staffers are adequately equipped for the job at hand. Ambassador Holloway said the donation will go a long way in removing several impediments that existed.

He also pointed out that the future of Guyana was largely dependent on the GRA’s ability to carry out its function in an efficient manner.

“We have worked with the GRA closely over the years to help the staff do their job in a safer fashion through training and other technical assistance. We have also helped in the past with tackling smuggling and contraband,” Holloway noted as he committed to ensuring sustained collaboration.

The donation was welcomed by the GRA management and Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan.

Minister Jordan used to opportunity to reflect on the tarnished reputation of the agency as a consequence of reports of corruption and mismanagement.

“Put it in the past and move forward with confidence, hope, aspiration, determination and dedication,” the Minister urged staff members.

He said the government and other friendly donors will continue to provide the resources needed and they expect that the agency will provide the results.

Mr. Jordan while urging the agency to always remain professional in its operations, said “whoever can’t stay on the ship will have to get of voluntarily or will be pushed off.”