Opposition Motion Urges Guyana Government to Protect the Nation from Potential Oil Spill Disaster

In a crucial move to safeguard the interests of the Guyanese people, a motion has been submitted to the National Assembly under Standing Order 12 by opposition parliamentarian Hon. Ganesh Mahipaul, M.P. The motion calls upon the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Hon. Mohabir Anil Nandlall, and the Executive Arm of Government to take immediate action to protect Guyana from any potential oil spill disaster and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Citing the recent appeal filed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding ExxonMobil’s parent company guarantee on Guyana operations, the motion emphasizes the urgent need for action. The appeal, highlighted in the press release titled “EPA appeals ruling on ExxonMobil’s parent company guarantee on Guyana operations,” has raised concerns about the potential risks associated with oil spills and demands greater accountability.

“We call on them to ensure that Guyana and its citizens are protected from any potential oil spill disaster, in accordance with the nation’s Constitution,” the motion asserts, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the nation’s natural resources and the well-being of its people.

Central to the motion is the demand for the Executive Arm of Government to fully comply with the requirements outlined in the renewed environmental permit, as well as the approved permits for Liza 2, Payara, Yellowtail, and Uaru. This adherence to the ruling of Justice Sandil Kissoon will serve to prevent any future legal actions stemming from non-compliance.

Furthermore, the motion urges the Executive Arm of Government to resume the implementation of the EPA’s comprehensive capacity-building program. This program includes the establishment of a specialized Petroleum Unit, composed of professionals with extensive international oil and gas experience, in line with the World Bank’s plan. The unit will provide continuous oversight, including 24/7 coverage on-site aboard the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels, significantly reducing the risk of an oil spill.

“We cannot afford to ignore the grave risk posed by a potential oil spill. The establishment of the Petroleum Unit and its continuous on-site coverage are essential to mitigate this threat effectively,” Hon. Ganesh Mahipaul emphasizes, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

In seeking the National Assembly’s support, the motion emphasizes that the matter is not sub judice, as no date has been set for the appeal, nor have any judges been assigned to the case. It urges the Speaker to follow a similar ruling as in previous matters of Sub Judice, allowing the motion to proceed as a definite matter of urgent public importance.

As Guyana stands at the precipice of its burgeoning oil industry, the motion seeks to ensure that the nation’s interests are protected, and the potential environmental risks are mitigated. According to the press statement, “the urgency and importance of the matter demand immediate action from the Executive Arm of Government and the support of the National Assembly. Only through diligent oversight, compliance, and proactive measures can Guyana prevent a catastrophic oil spill disaster and safeguard its future.”