Dear Editor,
The recent completion of the Oil Spill Response & Shoreline Cleanup Assessment Techniques Course and Incident Command System (ICS) Course by twenty seven members of the Guyana Defense Force is not just about capacity building via drills and simulations; it’s a testament to our commitment in safeguarding our future.
As Guyana’s oil and gas sector continues at a rapid pace, driving major growth, we must recognize that our continued prosperity depends heavily on our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to environmental threats. Training like this one ensures that our soldiers and agencies are not only prepared but also coordinated under the Incident Command System (ICS) in the event of an oil spill.
The timing could not be better with the recent passage by parliament of the Oil Pollution Prevention, Preparedness, Response and Responsibility Bill 2025 and the Polluter Pays principle now enshrined in law acting as our legal backbone, our operational readiness should match it.
Let’s not forget that we have at our disposal a Capping Stack, one of 13 in existence, which is critical for rapid containment in the event of a blowout.
Beyond the environmental safeguards of this kind of preparedness, the economy also benefits. An oil spill would set back years of development as our oil and gas revenues are used to improve infrastructure, enhance healthcare and education, provide social programs and save in the Natural Resources Fund for future generations. Therefore, every law, trained responder and response equipment invested in, shields our national progress.
The RSS, the GDF, the CDC and all participating agencies deserve commendation for making this happen as this is the kind of behind the scenes work that doesn’t make a big splash in the headlines but is exactly what gives investors and stakeholders confidence.
Our preparedness is not an option but rather the price of our prosperity and Guyana is demonstrating that we are willing to make the investment.
Sincerely,
Daniella Wilson
