The Ministry of Home Affairs has dismissed a report, purportedly originating from the Embassy of the United States of America, as false and unfounded.

The release stated that the Embassy issued a report to the effect that Missionaries belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints have been asked to leave the country because they were engaged in espionage activities.

The Ministry asserted that upon acting in accordance with the Laws of Guyana (the Immigration Act Chap 14:02) Work Permits and Extension of Stay to 50 Missionaries belonging to the said Church, were rejected and ordered to leave the jurisdiction. These Missionaries, according to the release, over-stayed their time in Guyana and did not possess valid Work Permits for various periods since November 2004.

On June 10, 2009, the Church submitted a list indicating that it has 66 persons attached to the organization.  The letter also requested work permits and extension of stay for the 66 persons, of which 50 had overstayed, while the whereabouts of 13 were unclear and three had valid work permits.

Committed to finding a workable solution, a meeting was convened at the Office of the President at the request of President Bharrat Jagdeo.  Present at the meeting were the Minister of Home Affairs and two High Representatives of the Church, who were informed that while Guyana is a free, open and tolerant society, the laws of the land must be respected by all.

The persons whose work permits and extension of stay have expired will leave the country voluntarily within one month and replacements associated with the Church will be allowed to enter the jurisdiction and to conduct their activities provided they are granted work permits in advance of their arrival.