Osinfor, Peru’s wildlife and forestry bureau, has accused government ministers of colluding with logging firms to limit its regulatory powers.
At issue is a change in how the Osinfor leader is selected: formerly, it was by an open, public process, for a four-year term with clearly defined responsibilities, and only of a forestry professional with at least ten years’ experience.
The new process, designed by a government commission with advice from logging firms, allows for leadership by a non-forestry professional, appointed by executive order, with no guaranteed job tenure and unspecified powers.
The change is considered an effort by the logging industry to limit oversight of illegal timber operations.
Source: Ojo Publico (Peru)