Dear Editor,
Reference is made to “Environmentalist raps Exxon … study on fishing” (Nov 29). It is imperative we know the impact of oil and gas drilling on the fishing industry and on marine life and take steps to address any problems. ‘Fisherfolks’ complain of low catch. Is drilling and oil production the cause?
Experiments have showed that fish swim away with increased level of noise, and/or wave disruption. It seems to suggest from experiments, that oil drilling would impact on migratory patterns of fish. If indeed, this happens, then it would explain the claim of low catch by fishermen in Guyana waters, or fishing fields near drilling. But proper scientific studies are needed on the impact of oil and gas drilling and production as well as oil and gas pollutants (oil spills, etc.) on fishing in Guyana waters. Is it any different from say Trinidad, Surinam, and Venezuelan waters – all being our neighbors?
If the fishing industry is affected, shutting down oil operations is not the solution. But everyone tied to the fishing industry should be compensated fairly and steps be taken to reduce the effects of drilling (including oil spills) on fishing. We must not allow drilling to ruin the fishing industry but take mitigating steps to protect the livelihood of those tied to the fishing industry.
Sincerely,
Vishnu Bisram
