The opposition People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), has expressed concerned with what they see as policy decisions being considered by the Progressive National Party (PNP) that they say can pose a threat to our environment. We are aware of a number of projects and un-substantiated matters in the pipeline for consideration and we have in fact posed a question to the Minister of Environment asking her Government’s Policy on the proposed long line fishing and dredging in the Caicos Bank.
Leader of the PDM, Hon.Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson said they became even more concerned after hearing a statement from the Premier that was aired last week on PTV in which he suggested that the Laws may be amended to allow for dredging in the National Parks. She noted that the National Parks have its purpose and that former Governments spent thousands of dollars establishing and educating residents on the importance of the National Parks.
I am admonishing this PNP Government to act responsibly in matters where it appears economically feasible for today and tomorrow, but which can prove to be detrimental to our future.
We as a people rely heavily on the environment and we have a great deal of responsibility to maintain it: be it our clean air, our beaches and/or our marine life,” said Mrs. Robinson.
The Opposition PDM will oppose any proposed Policies that we know are detrimental to the environment of these Islands and we will stand to safeguard our environment as is provided for, in the Constitution. I am from a Fishing Community and the environment is especially important to me. I learnt to be protective of the environment and hence my petitioning to Kate Sullivan in my written submission to have the clause concerning the protection of our environment placed in the highest law of the Land. I remain grateful that the provision was placed there and the Opposition will spare no efforts safeguarding these provisions and our environment,” she added.
Hon. Robinson suggested that the Government places greater effort in strengthening the Department of Environment and Maritime through the provision of more critical staffing needs and training and create clear policies and penalties to protect our environment.
“We need to be more proactive to protect what we have for our future generations and two of our country’s economic sectors and for the general enjoyment of our people and visitors to our shores,” Opposition leader Robinson added.
