Project’s permit still suspended

THE environmental permit for the Wanigela Integrated Agriculture project in Northern remains suspended, says Environment, Conservation and Climate Change Minister Wera Mori.
Mori said this was because of illegal logging issues and reports of environmental issues.
“The Wanigela Integrated Agriculture project which was granted a level two environmental permit in 2016,” he said.
“However, given issues raised, especially pertaining to illegal logging and other activities and reports of environmental issues, the department had suspended that permit for that particular development.
“As such, the environmental permit granted remains suspended as far as the department is concerned.
“I know that an appeal has been made to the environmental council for their considerations but to this date, the environmental permit is still suspended.”
Mori said a decision would be made on the findings of the environment council.
“We have a duty to protect the environment and must be seen as making decisions that will be in that order,” he said.
“I am sure that this matter will be resolved.
“Opportunities have been given to all parties to go into some kind of mediation. And arising out of that, we may be able to make a decision.”
Mori added that another agro forestry project in the province which an environmental permit was applied for has progressed and recommendations have been made but the permit has not been issued.