Ian Pou, Executive Director of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, strongly defends his leadership and the organization in response to public allegations made by a coalition of tourism, fishing, and environmental groups in San Pedro. The coalition had demanded transparency, a financial audit, potential legal action, and his resignation, among other reforms.
Key Points from Ian Pou’s Response
Financial Management & Debt Reduction
- When Pou assumed leadership, Hol Chan was in financial disarray with nearly $1Mil in debts, including outstanding loans and unpaid supplier invoices.
- He spearheaded efforts to stabilize operations, consolidated debts ($3.5Mil), and secured financing to pay for critical assets like patrol vessels and Sargassum harvesters.
- Pou emphasized that major operational costs—like vessel maintenance and 24/7 marine patrols – are misunderstood and under-appreciated by critics. (Expenses include: Assisting Nemo during natural disasters, operational costs for seven vessels and sargassum harvesters, one Polaris, fuel costs, salaries, building maintenance, special projects (sea turtle monitoring), education center, 24/7 patrolling…among others)
Asset Rehabilitation and Infrastructure Improvements
- Under his leadership, Hol Chan rehabilitated enforcement vessels, renovated the headquarters, and restructured internal departments, including technical and enforcement units.
- A new visitor center and gift shop are in progress, and Hol Chan is aiming to open a conference facility on the third floor of its headquarters to generate sustainable revenue.
Allegations of Mismanagement and Corruption
- Pou categorically denied misuse of funds, explaining that all expenditures are documented and tied to operational needs.
- He claimed that past corruption existed before his tenure, and that he made difficult staffing changes to eliminate collusion with illegal fishers.
- He criticized specific individuals in the coalition for having personal vendettas and conflicts of interest.
Development Approvals and “No Objection” Letters
- He clarified that Hol Chan does not grant development permits, only “no objection” letters with conditions based on environmental review.
- These letters are often misunderstood as project approvals, and Pou insisted that ultimate permitting decisions rest with government departments.
- He stressed that Hol Chan’s role is to ensure any project near the reserve complies with conservation standards.
Transparency and Public Engagement
- While he acknowledged that Hol Chan could improve community outreach, Pou expressed disappointment that calls for his resignation and accusations of misconduct were issued without direct engagement or verified facts.
- He stated that Hol Chan remains open to audits and collaboration, but cautioned against politically motivated pressure tactics.
Hol Chan is Being Unfairly Targeted
Ian Pou presented a comprehensive, emotionally charged defense of his tenure, describing a turnaround effort marked by infrastructure upgrades, environmental stewardship, and financial recovery. He admitted challenges but insisted that Hol Chan is being unfairly targeted by certain members of the coalition with personal grievances or misunderstandings of the organization’s scope and limitations.
Press Release by the Ambergris Caye Coalition posted by Ambergris Caye Citizens for Sustainable Development – ACCSD
