Preliminary work has already begun on the Vaca Dam but a group of concerned citizens from Cayo went to the Supreme Court this afternoon to ask the Chief Justice to make sure construction doesn't begin - at least not until an environmental compliance plan is filed. The group actually took the Department of Environment to court and they are asking the Chief Justice to order the Chief Environmental Officer to request an ECP. Candy Gonzalez is leading the efforts and she says they aren't asking the Chief Justice to stop construction of the dam - they just want the law to be followed.
Candy Gonzalez, Activist
"What we are asking for is that the Department of Environment ensures that the laws are followed in terms of the environmental compliance plan for the Chalillo Dam before they allow the continuance of construction of the Vaca dam."
Keith Swift,
The last attempt to stop Chalillo failed. Why do you think it would work this time around?
Candy Gonzalez,
"First of all we weren't looking to stop anything. We were looking to make sure that if a project proceeded, that it proceeded correctly. We are concerned today as we were then that things have not proceeded correctly and we are looking out for the health, safety, and well being of the people downstream of the dam project."
This afternoon's session was in Chambers and the Chief Justice granted government an adjournment. They claim they weren't prepared since they were only served with the papers last night. BECOL has also asked to be added as an interested party. The case has been adjourned to Friday morning.
