Since the release of the Local Content Policy, there has been a surge of concern over the inclusion of confidentiality provisions which prevent the disclosure of all information that companies submit on the use of Guyanese goods and services.
In light of this, the Energy Department has sought to explain why the policy was crafted in this manner. In a missive to the media today, it said the extent of disclosure of Local Content Plans and reports is always a sensitive matter, but a balance is needed between total disclosure on the one hand and legitimate confidentialities on the other. The department said, “This is no different for Guyana. The current policy has had to walk this difficult line.”
The Energy Department was keen to note however that Guyanese will still have access to certain important pieces of information in spite of the confidentiality provisions.
The exact policy provisions regarding what will be available for public consumption are as follows:
Section 3.2.10.7: “Notwithstanding legal constraints that prevent disclosure of submitted and reported information on local content to parties beyond the Minister, the Minster shall disclose the anticipated contracting and procurement opportunities for Guyanese Suppliers…”
Section 3.2.10.7: “Notwithstanding legal constraints that prevent disclosure of reported information on local content to parties beyond the Minister, the Minister shall on an annual basis, disclose an Operator’s Summary Local Content Utilization Report…”
The department was keen to note that Guyana’s 2020 Local Content Policy remains a live document and that stakeholder comments on any aspect of the policy, including levels of disclosure, continue to be welcomed. Whether additional comments are tendered or not, the department reminded that it remains committed to continuous revisions as conditions evolve in the sector.
The public is invited to view the document at https://motp.gov.gy/.
