This morning, Belizeans on Facebook took notice of a post from a mystery social media account that calls itself "Belize Marine Life."
The post states that Waterloo, which is the developer behind the Port of Belize's Cruise Port and Cargo Expansion project have appealed the refusal of the National Environmental Appraisal Committee. We have since confirmed with Minister Orlando Habet that, indeed, the developers have filed an appeal.
"Belize Marine Life" makes the case that under this appeal, a 3-member Tribunal appointed by the Ministry responsible for the Environment could potentially overturn the refusal that the 16-member NEAC delivered.
According to the Environmental Protection laws currently in place, "Upon making such an appeal... the Minister shall appoint a Tribunal to hear and determine all appeals made... A Tribunal...shall be constituted of a Magistrate appointed by the Chief Magistrate or a Judge nominated by the Chief Justice, one member appointed by the Minister... and the Senator Representing Private Sector... The Tribunal has the power to confirm, vary, amend or alter a decision made by the Department or reverse or substitute such decision... End quote.
That tribunal can make that decision by a majority, meaning only two members out of the three are needed to carry a successful appeal.
