The PPP/C Government is fearful that a recent High Court ruling will embolden more citizens to challenge ExxonMobil’s operations here, specifically regarding the oil giant’s adherence to international best practices and local laws.
At least this is the view expressed by Alliance For Change (AFC) Member, David Patterson and former Head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Vincent Adams.
During a press conference this afternoon, both party members said the recent ruling by Justice Sandil Kissoon ordering ExxonMobil to provide unlimited insurance coverage for oil spills is a huge win for the country. Both men find it unthinkable that the government would seek to appeal such a ruling which at its core, seeks adequate financial protection for Guyanese.
Patterson and Adams also said they are unaware of any case where a government has appealed a ruling of such a nature.
Patterson said, “The ruling is purely based on the facts and there are some important things which the judge said. The judge said the Environmental Protection Agency refused to give any documents or confirmation in its defence regarding insurance coverage from Exxon. He also said that Exxon and EPA in their defence, said citizens have no locus standi.”
The AFC Executive Member said this simply means that the oil giant and the regulator are saying that the applicants, Frederick Collins and Godfrey Whyte, have no right to query whether there is sufficient insurance coverage or not.
Patterson said he expected the government to see the ruling as a win, proceed to comply with the orders, and outline a plan of action to strengthen the EPA where needed.
By doing the very opposite, and moving to appeal, Patterson said he could only conclude that the government is fearful that the ruling will encourage more citizens to come forward and stand up for their rights.
Adams expressed similar sentiments, as he noted that the case is a unique one since it is normally oil companies that would issue any challenge against a ruling that could have implications for its operations.
Guyana Standard previously reported that ExxonMobil Guyana has 30 days within which to provide an unlimited parent guarantee and an insurance package for its affiliate (Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited) from a reputable firm. Failure to do so will see the Liza Phase One Environmental Licence being suspended.
