While we are trying to solve issues relating to the waste management system, it will also raise issues about the protection of communities as well.
Minister for Environment, Lynda Tabuya has made the comments while speaking on the proposed waste energy project in Vuda during the 2 day Continuing Legal Education Program Towards Resilient Blue Carbon Ecosystems.
Tabuya stresses the government has to strike that balance, but she asks the lawyers on where do they come in to deal with this, and what are their thoughts around this as it is very topical right now.
She says they will see advocacy groups being formed to do this well.
Tabuya says as a ministry, they have processes in place regarding the environmental impact assessment but these are issues that will continue to come up as they try to deal with the waste management issue.
She adds it is important that they hear all voices on this - our traditional communities, our coastal communities around there as well as the resource owners.
Tabuya says right now it's the residents of Vuda that are raising their voices.
She asks what about other voices as well as this is something government needs to hear as they consider this proposal.
She echoed the importance of inclusive dialogue, highlighting the need to hear from coastal communities, traditional resource owners and other stakeholders whose livelihoods may be affected.
Tabuya also acknowledges the concerns raised by members of the public regarding access to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report for the proposed Waste to Energy Facility and Private Port at Vuda Point.
Tabuya says as Minister, she takes responsibility for ensuring that their processes are transparent, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the people.
She says recognises that access during standard government hours has been a challenge for many.
Tabuya says in response, the Department of Environment has extended viewing access by making the EIA Report available at First Landing Beach Resort and Villas, with access now available daily until 11pm.
She says additional access remains available at their offices in Suva, Lautoka and the Ba Provincial Office during normal working hours.
The Minister says the 21-day public review period, from 23rd March to 22nd April this year, is an important first step in the EIA process.
She strongly encourages all Fijians, particularly those located in close proximity to the proposed development, to take this opportunity to review the report and provide their written submissions.
Tabuya clarifies that the Environment Management (EIA Process) Regulations 2007 prescribes current requirements for physical access to EIA reports, including the 21-day period, as well as the fee of $5 per page.
She says these are legal provisions that the Department is required to follow.
However, she acknowledges that access to information is a constitutional right, and that their systems must reflect this.
Tabuya says that is why their ministry has proposed amendments of the current regulations to make EIA reports more accessible, including more practical and modern ways for the public to access information.
These proposed amendments are currently under review with the Solicitor General’s office.
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