REQUEST TO RENEW AUTHORIZATION OF CASH PAYMENTS IN EXCESS OF $3,000

UNCLAS MANAGUA 000963 SENSITIVE SIPDIS DEPT FOR RM/FPRA/FP DEPT FOR INL FMC CHARLESTON FOR USDO E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: AFIN ABUD AMGT SNAR NU SUBJECT: REQUEST TO RENEW AUTHORIZATION OF CASH PAYMENTS IN EXCESS OF $3,000 REF: A. 2008 SECSTATE 126468 ¶B. 2008 MANAGUA 1313 ¶1. (U) THIS IS AN ACTION REQUEST. PLEASE SEE PARA 5 FOR ACTION. ¶2. (U) Post appreciates RM's cooperation in 2008 in granting a 12-month waiver under 4 FAH-3 H-394.2-1 Cash Payment Limitation for specific INL operations involving cash payments in excess of USD 3,000, allowing cash payments of approximately $10,000 (REF A). ¶3. (SBU) As noted in REF B, these payments are made under an INL/DEA program to support host government National Police with narcotics interdiction efforts. The support is in the form of travel per diem and fuel. Checks and/or electronic funds transfers are not feasible in the current political climate and would put this operation at risk. ¶4. (SBU) Post continues to adhere to proper controls per INL guidance and DEA operational procedures to ensure the funds are expended in accordance with the existing letter of agreement (LOA) with the host government. ¶5. (U) ACTION REQUEST. The existing waiver will expire on October 31, 2009. Post requests an extension or a renewal of the waiver granted in REF A. ¶6. (U) The point of contact for this request is Financial Management Officer, Margarita Halle. CALLAHAN