Ashcroft-Allied Waterloo Makes Serious Claims Against NEAC

Tonight, there are reports that the National Environmental Appraise Committee, NEAC met today. Reports suggest that they considered the proposal from Waterloo Investment Holdings and the proposed cruise port at the Port of Belize

Reports also suggest that NEAC members voted no to the approval of the project- but that is unconfirmed.

When we spoke with the chairman of NEAC, who is the CEO in the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Dr Kenrick Williams, he confirmed that the commission has met and made a recommendation to Department Of the Environment for consideration. He explained that at this point, he couldn't comment on the specifics of NEAC's deliberations.

But while those are kept tightlipped for now, letter from the CEO of Waterloo Investment Holdings, Stewart Howard, wrote to Dr Williams to complain about several matters - one of them being alleged bribes that NEAC members asked for.

The letter speaks about various unprecedented scrutiny, roadblocks and delays the project has had to endure due to the Department of Environment, but then goes on to say, quote, "The most alarming and inappropriate obstruction we have received was from several NEAC members, who, at different stages of the NEAC approval process, have directly and indirectly approached us and offered to 'assist' in answering of NEAC questions in exchange for financial remunerations." End quote.

Howard says his team declined these offers and feels that the secondary consultation is their punishment and, quote, "a hindrance set in place for not bending to the unscrupulous solicitations of these NEAC members." End quote.

They now feel that, going forward, these quote, "rogue, self serving NEAC members…will continue…to act out of spite for not having retained them." End quote.

Howard is now asking for Dr Williams to ensure a fair and transparent regulatory review and approval process.

Channel 7