Politicos clash over oil exploration contract

A senior government minister says he is prepared to engage Opposition Leader Dr Kenny Anthony in a legal battle over a controversial oil and gas exploration agreement, known here as the 'Grynberg Matter'.

Anthony has filed a defamation lawsuit against Housing Minister Richard Frederick for comments made in relation to the 11-year-old agreement that was signed between the US-based Jack Grynberg RSM Corporation and the government which was then headed by Anthony.

Ministers in the Stephenson King government, which came to power in 2006, allege that the agreement had allowed the US-based company to control the island's marine resources.

Frederick has confirmed receiving correspondence from Anthony's lawyers on the matter and has denied accusing the former prime minister of financial impropriety as a result of the agreement.

"I have never ever said in any place, whatsoever, that Dr Kenny Anthony received any monies personally from this contractual arrangement.

"What I have always said and will continue to say and cannot be silenced on, as it remains a fact, is that Dr Anthony signed an agreement which states that royalties should be paid to the minister," he added.

Anthony has declined an invitation from Frederick to appear on television to debate the Grynberg deal.

"The only debate that we will have on this matter is when he will be called on to answer to explain his libellous statements on this matter," Anthony said.

Prime Minister Stephenson King has promised to address the nation on the issue.

Meanwhile, former tourism minister Phillip J. Pierre has also instituted legal action against National Security Minister Guy Mayers over a newspaper article related to the construction of a wall near his residence.

- CMC