Maya Communities Consulted about Proposed Developments Down South

The Government of Belize held preliminary consultation sessions over the weekend with several Indigenous communities to come to a resolution on proposed developments to the land. The consultations were geared at seeking the villagers’ final decision for U.S. Capital Energy to conduct oil exploration in the Sarstoon Temash National Park. The Commissioner of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Gregory Ch’oc, explains that this is the first step in adhering to the Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) Protocol. Cho’c adds that the consultation was an overall success and the villagers were receptive to the discussions. The next step is to consult with all the village leaders and formulate an agreement plan.

Prime Minister, John Briceño, says he was recently in the south conducting consultations with the village leaders regarding oil exploration in these communities. He adds that the villagers expressed support if the venture will create jobs for the residents.