MFA Sets the Record Straight on Corona Reef

On Tuesday, environmental activists Giovannie Brackett and Wil Maheia spoke out against government, following a joint release issued by the Ministry of Blue Economy, the Fisheries Department and TIDE last week, in respect of the Corona Reef.  Brackett and Maheia argue that TIDE researchers should not seek permission from Guatemalan authorities to conduct scientific surveys in the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve since, according to them; it is in Belize’s territorial waters.  We note, however, that the protected area straddles Belize and Guatemala’s maritime boundaries.  Today when News Five contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for comment, we were informed that permission is sought by both Belizean and Guatemalan researchers based on where in the reserve they are conducting activities.  We were also informed that it is customary for TIDE to notify fisheries and coast guard personnel ahead of their visits.