Whereas, the use of this radar station is not clear at the present time, the information being that it will be used to detect planes coming from South America with drug cargo; and
Wheels, this radar station will not only take the Valley of Lajas but will be in part located in the island town of Vieques, where the operation of such equipment would generate radiation in such a way that the land, air, and maritime life on this island will be in danger of becoming extinct; and
Whereas, all the diverse political, social, and religious communities of Puerto Rico have spoken against the establishment of such a radar station in Puerto Rico; and
Whereas, studies made in the United States have proven the ineffectuality of this kind of installation for the purpose designated; and
Whereas, the problem of drug addiction and drug trafficking are by nature moral and social problems needing that kind of approach for a solution instead of a technological one; and
Whereas, the bishop of the Affiliated Autonomous Methodist Church of Puerto Rico, pastors, and lay leaders of the church are actively participating, from their faith perspective, in this effort to oppose the building of this radar station;
Therefore, be it resolved, that the General Conference support MARCHA and those sectors of the Puerto Rican society that oppose the building of the aforementioned radar station, and that copies of this resolution be sent to the president of the United States of America, the governor of Puerto Rico, the media, and the Methodist Church in Puerto Rico.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 22711-GM-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference