OVER 100 persons participated in an Oil Spill demonstration exercise recently facilitated by ExxonMobil Guyana at Waini Point, Shell Beach Protected Area in Region One (Barima-Waini).

Those participating were representatives from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), coastal Village councils and other key agencies, according to a release received.
The demonstration exercise was done with support from the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), the RDC, the Protected Areas Commission (PAC), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard and the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).

Addressing the individuals on the beach side on Friday May 31, 2019, Country Manager Rod Henson stated: “Because we want to ensure that yours and other communities remain beautiful and untouched, ExxonMobil Guyana, is committed to safe and environmentally responsible operations. This commitment is highlighted in our Corporate Environment Policy; Protect Tomorrow. Today.”

According to Henson, it is Exxon’s fundamental goal to ensure that, in every location it operates, there are no environmental incidents.

“Not only do we comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations, but we seek to go beyond these where practical and apply international standards where laws and regulations do not exist. Already, we have partnered with key agencies over the years and even here in Region One to ensure that the natural beauty of coastal communities and life beyond the shores remain intact,” he added.

Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley, stated that the administration is pleased that coastal communities are now better able to protect themselves from an oil spill, should one occur.

“This exercise while it may seem very simple, it is very important and significant to the development of this new found wealth in our country in which as a people, at the local level, we will be empowered to know what needs to be done if there should be an oil spill,” Ashley said.

Similarly, CDC Capt. Salim October stated that while the existing concerns of citizens cannot be ignored, it is an important part of the country’s overall preparedness to respond to a potential oil spill.

“Engaging in this exercise no doubt is considered proactive and to some extent it is considered preventative,” he expressed.

The Oil Spill demonstration exercise is one in a series of drills and workshops planned by ExxonMobil Guyana in Coastal communities across the country.