GDF flagged for high vehicle maintenance; over $11M spent on two unserviceable vehicles

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has been singled out by Auditor General Deodat Sharma in his 2019 report for high vehicle maintenance.

According to the Report, the GDF expended some $91.6M on the maintenance of 30 vehicles.

This represents an average maintenance cost of $3M per vehicle.

But more significantly, ten vehicles were maintained at costs amounting to $46.4M, which represents an even higher average maintenance cost per vehicle ($4.6M).

The report noted that remarkably, one Toyota Hilux Double-Cab acquired over 11 years ago was maintained at a cost of $7.1M; whilst, a Ford Ranger was maintained at a cost of $5.6M.

Also, a Ford F-350 and Ford Ranger Double Cab were maintained at costs amounting to $6.4M and $5.5M, respectively.

However, based on a list submitted for audit, the Force has deemed these two vehicles unserviceable.

The report said high vehicle maintenance costs were also noted for Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Social Protection, Ministry of Public Security and Regions №. 3 and 6.

The AG believes these costs were incurred due to the agencies not assessing whether it is economical to retain or dispose of vehicles.

In this regard, the sum of $251.6M was expended on repairs and maintenance in respect of 118 vehicles during 2019.