Committee to investigate irregularities in teak trade inaugurated

Accra, Aug. 21, GNA - A seven-member Revenue Committee to investigate irregularities in the allocation of teak stems to companies was inaugurated in Accra on Friday.

The committee had been tasked to established measures to help curb leakages, especially in the teak trade.

The committee would also investigate whether the companies adhered to the procedures and regulations pertaining to the export of wood products at the harbours and whether there was any under-invoicing of the quantum and volumes of teak products declared by the companies. Other areas of their work was to investigate whether all tax obligations were met; all payments due government of Ghana/Forestry Commission were made; and whether there are any current outstanding indebtedness to the Forestry Commission.

Alhaji Collins Dauda, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, inaugurating the Committee, said it would look into the business transactions in the Brong Ahafo, Ashanti and Volta Regions from 2004 to 2008, and submit report within six weeks.

The Minister said the members, in carrying out their duties, might contact the Forestry Commission, Ministry of Finance, Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and any other relevant agencies for any information they might require and urged officials of those bodies to cooperate with the committee.

"In addition, any member of the public who may have any useful information should communicate with the committee, submit memoranda or appear before the committee through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources." He said it was an onerous responsibility but with members' varied and rich experiences he hoped that they would carry out their duties creditably. Mr Edward Dzoboku, Director of Operations, Forestry Service Department and the Chairman of the committee, thanked the government for the responsibility and the belief in their capabilities to handle the issue and pledged on behalf of other members to give of their best.