RIO DE JANEIRO: Despite anger from local activists, the Brazil National Petroleum Agency announced that it had given Chevron oil company authorization to resume its production at 6 offshore wells near Rio de Janeiro after more than 100,000 gallons of crude oil had pushed out into the ocean. “I think this is disgusting and shows that Brazilian government will not stand up for big business and just wants money they can give to their friends,” environmental activist Roberto Sanchez told Bikyanews.com. “I'm sad,” he added. The agency said that last Friday's authorization will last one year. In an emailed statement, the Rio-based agency said a security team would be monitoring the U.S.-based company's operations. An estimated 110,000 gallons (416,300 liters) of crude seeped into the ocean near the Chevron well in November, 2011. The leaks resumed several months later, and the company's production in the Frade field was suspended. The field had been producing around 62,000 barrels a day. Criminal charges against Chevron and driller Transocean were dropped but both still face two civil lawsuits seeking $20 billion in damages. BN
