GWI board fires unqualified debt collection manager

The Board of Directors of the Guyana Water Inc (GWI) yesterday terminated the services of Debt Recovery Manager Lear Goring, saying that the drug trafficking convict was not qualified for the position. The decision to terminate Goring’s services was made by board members at a specially-convened meeting yesterday, a press release from the company said. “The decision comes following a review of Mr. Goring’s credentials, which do not satisfy the requirements outlined for the position,” the release said. “It should also be noted that the decision taken was based solely on a review of his qualification for the job,” it added. According to the release, Goring was sent on administrative leave pending investigations into reports that he was not qualified for the position.

Goring, who was hired by GWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Richard Van West-Charles for the position even though it was not advertised, was also twice convicted in the US for drug trafficking. His qualifications were also questioned as his employment file remained empty, sources said. On Wednesday, Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan told Stabroek News that he had become concerned after the hiring of Goring was made public and he had immediately asked the corporation for a full report on the matter. He had said yesterday’s meeting was “to address this sole issue and some other relevant and associated issues.”