Cuffie: No record of FFOS query

The ministry in a statement on Wednesday scotched recent claims by FFOS.

The ministry said while its minister Maxie Cuffie was grateful for FFOS’ interest in the issue, there are established procedures for any individual or group desirous of obtaining information from the Ministry or any Government agency.

FFOS corporate secretary Gary Aboud was directed to the FOIA’s website from where a form could be downloaded and a request submitted.

“This process gives power to anyone, regardless of their status or station to legitimately access information.” The ministry said it is committed to transparency and accountability and Cuffie is assuring Aboud that once a request is made using the proper channels, the FFOS will be entertained.” The statement provided some facts on the Government’s property rental.

The monthly rental bill is about $45.3 million VAT exclusive.

Rents of $3.2 million (VAT exclusive) per month have been saved by vacating unoccupied properties, with 20 leases given up on unoccupied buildings to date.

“One Alexandra Place which cost the Government over $50 million in rent between the period December 2012 and July 2016, now fully occupied under the same terms that had been previously negotiated.” The Government has given up Estate Trace, Barataria where $47.7 million (VAT exclusive) was spent from 2012 to 2016, without ever occupying.

“Additional rentals will be vacated with the newly opened Government Plaza which is expected to house over 4,000 public servants when fully occupied .”