In my discussions with a wide cross-section of people – the Maya, East Indian, Creole and in between, I got the feeling they resent very much SATIIM?s actions for stifling economic opportunity in Toledo. Observing the list of people?s names applying for jobs with the company, I noted that most of them are from the surrounding communities of the project area. There already are no jobs in the ?forgotten district?. No activity that people can rely on for survival. And now this. Some people are really angry and are blaming the stupid Mayas for interfering. I agree with Mr. Choc: we cannot be satisfied with trail cutting. It has to be much more than that.

Our attitude towards these developments should be to negotiate our compromise directly with the company. Why don?t we use our legal resources to pursue tangible benefits for our people? Secure long term job opportunities. Commit the company to community projects, such as roads, streets, schools, lighting, etc. Let them provide scholarships for our children, in addition to securing health insurance for our people, etc. All this should be for the life of the oil project.

There are some who say we can lobby for GOB to raise the 7% royalty paid to it to 70%. That can be done, but I can assure you: None of this will ever trickle down to the people concerned. This will only create opportunities for greedy politicians to line their pockets more. A trust fund may be created to ensure benefits to the people concerned.

Unless we exhaust our efforts to negotiate, then it is wise to adopt the position taken. Let us consider the realities ? people need jobs. The environment is affected any which way, even in building your/our houses.

I know there are media houses that support SATIIM?s position. Fair game. Let the debate continue.

(Signed) Primitivo Coc