Restriction on dumping from ships, etc

(1) Subject to sub-section (2), no person shall dump any garbage, refuse, or chemical substances from any aircraft, ship, tanker, floating craft or other marine vessel into the harbours or sea of Belize. (2) A person may dump a substance as described in sub- section (1) where the dumping is necessary to avert danger to human life at sea or to any ship, aircraft, tanker, floating craft or other marine vessel. 26 (3) Any dumping under sub-section (2) shall be carried out as far as possible, in a manner that minimizes danger to human life and damage to the marine environment. (4) Nothing in this section relieves a person from liability under this Act, where the danger referred to in sub-section (2) was caused by a negligent act or omission of that person. (5) Where dumping takes place under this section, the person in charge of the aircraft, ship, or other vessel shall, as soon as possible, report the dumping to the department. (6) Any person who contravenes the provisions of this section commits an offence and shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not less than five thousand dollars and not exceeding twenty-five thousand dollars or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or to both such fine and imprisonment.