An Update on Proposed Stake Bank Causeways

The conservation community has come out against the proposed causeways that are a major part of the Stake Bank multibillion-dollar cruise port project in the Belize City harbour. Earlier this year, it was revealed that approval was issued by NEAC years ago, giving developers the green light to proceed as planned. That document is now before Cabinet for its review. Sustainable Development C.E.O. Doctor Kenrick Williams gave an update on where that project stands.

Dr. Kenrick Williams, C.E.O., Ministry of Sustainable Development

“That’s another ongoing process. There is a document indicating that there was approval for the causeway via the ECP of 2019; I think August of 2019. A report was requested by cabinet from Mister Alegria; that was provided and now that is being reviewed by cabinet to see the veracity of those claims and how do we move forward with this process.”

Kenrick Williams

Reporter

“From what you’ve seen in those documents produced, is there in your mind a clear permission that NEAC gave to Stake Bank that would give them this assertion that they have this position to move forward with what is a major part of their project?”

Dr. Kenrick Williams

“Right. Well I mean the Chief Environmental Officer has certain powers within the law. The Environmental Protection Act empowers him to grant certain approvals through the ECP process and so there may be some value to that. Again, that is being looked at by cabinet.”