Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, today urged the Government of Guyana to reconsider its position to appeal the recent High Court ruling of Justice Sandil Kissoon, who ordered the Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA) to issue an Enforcement Notice to Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) and its parent company, Exxon Mobil to ensure it provides unlimited insurance coverage to safeguard Guyana against the effects of an oil spill.

The Government has already made its position clear through Attorney General Anil Nandlall, that it is not in favour of the decision and will be asking the Appeal Court to overturn the decision of the High Court.

During a Press Conference today, the Opposition Leader said any attempts to appeal the ruling is a betrayal to the people of Guyana.

“Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP are urged not to appeal this ruling which promotes and protects the interest of the people of Guyana. Should they appeal this ruling, there is no doubt that they are an anti-people regime and unpatriotic,” the Opposition Leader said.

According to the Opposition Leader the government is trying to fabricate issues in order to appeal the ruling, effectively  selling the country’s patrimony. He said while the Opposition welcomes investment from companies like ExxonMobil, the protection of the people of Guyana is paramount.

“To appeal this case is to appeal our own environmental laws and the safety and health of our people, it is selfish and a manifestation that the government don’t care about the people of Guyana. To appeal this case is further confirmation that Jagdeo and the PPP/C serve only their elite friends, families and favorites,” Mr. Norton said.

Mr. Norton said the Opposition will not get into the legal battle, but will support Civil Society organisations that oppose the government’s stance on this issue.

However, he added that he hopes good sense will prevail and the government listens to the voice of the Guyanese people.

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