Coalition Writes Prime Minister on Seismic Testing
In advance of Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting, the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage wrote to Prime Minister Dean Barrow on Monday seeking clarifications and statements on several issues. The Coalition is asking for information on the recent multi-beam and seismic testing activities in Belize, including all agreements and contracts between TGS, the company in charge of the activity, and government. Second, it wants consultation and information made available, especially as it relates to the multi-beam survey in relation to providing scientific and educational data, related specifically to fisheries and coral cover, and amendments made to any contracts that do not provide for same, and that no ship be allowed to enter Belizean waters to conduct these surveys if this has not been done. Third, seizing on the comments from Inspector of Petroleum Andre Cho at the meeting in San Pedro six days ago, confirming previous activity in seismic testing, the Coalition wants to know where this was done and how the data will be handled in light of public opposition. And lastly, it reiterates its call for either a legislated ban of offshore oil exploration in Belize or the legislation of the Clean Oceans Safe Tourism Moratorium, with stringent conditions in place, including a national referendum on the matter of offshore oil exploration. The letter is copied to the ministers in direct charge of the relevant ministries and other government stakeholders.
There is a time to think and stop with the negative, Belize need to grow and we need to find oil for progress. Yes the reef is something to think of but you all know Mexico is drilling in the Gulf and that oil spill will end up in the reef. There is ways to keep the drilling safe so we need to explore in order for Belize to grow. We all want good for the country so we need to look after the growth of the country. I bet if it was decided to drill off shore and we find oil that will give at least 60,000 barrels a day there will be great joy in the country as we will be able to afford free school up to university for our children. The government need revenue to pay our public officers and teachers so lets us come together and stop worry about other country thinking, they do not want us to get head and on the other hand those big oil company are the ones funding those organization to protest against drilling as if we find the price of oil will fall. Lets work with our government and what best for Belize.