NGO’s want ‘black and white’ on oil moratorium bill

It’s wait and see for the Belize Network of Non-Governmental Organizations regarding government’s announced intention to place in law an indefinite moratorium on activities leading up to offshore oil exploration in Belizean territorial waters and the exclusive economic zone. The BNN points to its own resolution which additionally calls for the matter to be taken to an official, binding referendum before any offshore oil concessions are granted. Prime Minister Dean Barrow rejected this on Friday in speaking with reporters, saying that it would dangerously bind future governments on the issue. The network says it looks forward to the draft bill which will be presented to the House of Representatives at its next session in October and reiterates its support of the Belize Coalition to Save Our Natural Heritage to ensure that the government’s promise comes true.