And the Prime Minister was also asked to address the Puerto Azul Project that's been generating so much controversy in the conservation community. He said there is no project, only a concept:
Hon. Dean Barrow - Prime Minister Dean Barrow
"Government's position, we have detailed a set of criteria. I believe there are 5 points that constitute a litmus test. Mr. Proposer, when you get your act together, when you come to the final concept that represents an articulated proposal, we will examine your 'project' to see whether it passes the tests laid down in the 5 criteria. If it fails to meet even 1 of the tests, it's no-go. So, not a problem that the environmentalists and other people are already getting excited, vigilance, even if perhaps a little premature, is welcomed. But, please, let us, again, deal with the facts and the reality of this thing not having gone anywhere. Let me assure all concerned that no kind of approval will be given except all the processes required by law, by public policy, and by good governance have been gone through."
And so what about those pictures his ministers of tourism and investment took in Cannes at the gala event launching the project – and who paid for them to go there? The Prime Minister said it was paid for by the sponsors:
Hipolito Novelo - Love News
"With regards to the Puerto Azul project, we saw pictures with 2 of your UDP Ministers. Can you confirm whether or not that trip was paid for by the Government of Belize?"
Prime Minister Dean Barrow
"I - no, I'm trying to recollect because of course I have to approve all these trips, and the submission that came to me, I seem to recollect made clear that the trip was being paid for by the sponsors of the launch. I don't think that what was done crossed the line. I am conceding that there is an argument. I don't see anything wrong, particularly because I know neither of the two ministers will have any kind of final say over whether the project proceed or not."
Jules Vasquez
"Are they not on the Ministerial sub-committee?"
Prime Minister Dean Barrow
"I don't think Heredia is - Except as part of the overall Cabinet decision. Ministerial Investment Sub-committee is chaired by Minister. Hulse. Minister Contreras is on it, but he is one person, but ultimately, remember. They don't decide, these things come to Cabinet, and I am telling you that I have that concept trained well in my sights because, while if it turns out it is feasible, it would be wonderful, I say to you again that certainly, the initial conceptualization did not strike me as going very far."
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