Rep. Luis Gutierrez Calls for Public Hearings, Impact Studies into Massive Gas Pipeline for PR

[Derechos]

Source: Democracy Now

Democratic Rep. Luis Gutierrez of Illinois comments on the Puerto Rican government’s push for a 92-mile natural gas pipeline dubbed the "Via Verde,” or "Green Way," despite concerns that it will cut through forests and water systems and pass near schools and residential areas. Geologists have noted the pipeline is near earthquake faults where there have been 2,500 seismic events in the last three years. Gutierrez says additional public inquiry is needed before the project should be approved and has asked the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to freeze construction until inquiries and impact assessments can be conducted. “We need hearings. We need public participation,” says Gutierrez. “Once you destroy the natural habitat of Puerto Rico, it isn’t something that you can recuperate.”

See link for entire interview - http://www.democracynow.org/2011/5/12/they_are_violating_all_the_rules

[EFerrari]

1. That interview was outstanding. n/t