Jamaica’s Energy Minister Dismisses Reports of Oil Discovery
“Fake News” Claims Reportedly Circulating on Social Media
KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC—The Jamaica government has described as “fake news” reports circulating on social media that it has been discovered here.
“I have seen the many posts on social media and received WhatsApps and telephone calls about the fake news circulating on social media in relation to the discovery of oil on our shores or off our shores.
Energy Minister Confirms No Discovery
“As a minister, I can categorically state that there is no such thing. It is fake news,” said Energy Minister Daryl Vaz. Listen to audio
Social Media Reports Claim Seven Billion Barrel Discovery
According to the social media reports, the oil discovery is equivalent to seven billion barrels, with some people speculating that the release of popular entertainer Vybz Kartel, who had been convicted of murder, was done deliberately to distract the masses from the alleged find.
British-Based Company Hold Exploration License
The British-based company, United Oil Plc, has a 22,400 km2 offshore exploration license located south of the island.
Additional Technical Studies Planned
In January this year, the company announced that it had secured a two-year extension to the production sharing agreement (PSA) for the Walton Morant License in Jamaica.
Conclusion
Jamaica’s Energy Minister Daryl Vaz has dismissed reports of an oil discovery as “fake news”. According to Vaz, the claims are “untrue” and urged Jamaicans to disregard the rumors. The British-based company United Oil Plc holds an offshore exploration license in Jamaica and plans to undertake additional technical studies to further de-risk the petroleum system and better define the prospects and leads identified on the license.
FAQs
Q: What did the Jamaica government say about reports of an oil discovery?
A: The government described the reports as “fake news”.
Q: Did Energy Minister Daryl Vaz confirm the discovery of oil?
A: No, Vaz categorically stated that there is no such thing and that it is fake news.
Q: What is the extent of the offshore exploration license held by United Oil Plc?
A: The license covers an area of 22,400 km2 located south of Jamaica.
Q: What kind of studies will United Oil Plc conduct to further de-risk the petroleum system?
A: The company plans to undertake additional technical studies, including piston core sampling and seismic reprocessing.