Tomorrow, OCEANA Belize will stage an event called hands across the sand where those opposed to offshore drilling will line up in front of the Sandlighters Promenade and hold hands in solidarity. OCEANA says the effort has renewed vigor after a US News outlet, YAHOO News ran a story earlier this week talking about oil reserves in Belize's marine areas. But the Prime Minister told the media yesterday that all offshore concessions have expired and none will be renewed, at least not right now:..
Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister
"All I can tell you is the official position of the government. There is a moratorium on offshore exploration. In fact, I've been talking to OCEANA, I've met with Ms Chanona. She's actually going to propose some language that could find its way into some sort of a formal document and I am perfectly happy to take that to cabinet. What I will not do, is to say that there is a proscription that forever there can and will be no offshore exploration. But I am prepared to, as I said, put in writing that there is a moratorium and that moratorium will only be lifted if conditions are right."
Reporter
"You did promise to a referendum, have you, on relating on offshore whether or not we should proceed offshore, you did say that yes sir."
Jules Vasquez
"It was an interview with me at your home."
Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister
"I was too comfortable, the least that the government can do is to give these people their referendum. Actually, would be prepared to support the government sponsoring the referendum to be held at an ample time. But why would there be a need for referendum now if the thing is subject to a moratorium and if I am prepared to enter into an agreement that would say that, that moratorium could only be lifted at certain circumstances. If thereafter people still want a referendum, I don't know. Looks like we have to spend a lot of PetroCaribe money in addition to debt by the referendums."
Reporter
"It's a democracy."
Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister
"Well let me that say no to that, but I believe that might be overtaken by events if we manage to sign this agreement."
Reporter
"In October, all the concessionary leases will have been up. So then..."
Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister
"For offshore?"
Reporter
"Yes for offshore"
Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister
"Well then there will be no more given."
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