Father Rogelio Cruz led a protest and celebrated mass on Sunday, 3 March, where he made clear that the community in Jarabacoa was united against the construction of a dam that would require the diversion of the Yaque del Norte River.
Diario Jarabacoa online reported that neighborhood groups and community organizations were present, but the mayors of Jarabacoa and Manabao did not attend. Father Rogelio led the protest with his chant: “The Yaque is not for sale, it has to be defended!” (“El Yaque no se vende, El Yaque se defiende!”).
The Buena Vista district councilor said that the waters can be used to generate electricity, but there should not be a diversion.
Father Rogelio said that the companies seek to obtain minerals such as gold and silver that are abundant in the area of the project.
Engineer Amos Martinez, president of the Jarabacoa Eco Tourism Cluster said that the project can be implemented but it should not affect the environment and the ecosystem. Former mayor of Jarabacoa, Joselito Abreu said that the river is a fundamental part of the town’s development and that is why the people will defend it.
Omar Rodriguez of Rancho Baiguate said that the community opposed the plan 12 years ago and that President Danilo Medina should stop the construction because the town will never accept it. He said Jarabacoa is a place where people come to enjoy the river and without it would be the end of progress for the town.
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