THE Department of Environment received more than 300 written submissions and petitions carrying around 10,000 signatures opposing the proposed Sigatoka Iron Sands Project.
In a statement, the department confirmed receiving 306 submissions, paper petitions with 2483 signatures and online petitions supported by about 7600 signatories while reaffirming the next stage of the Environment Impact Assessment process.
“We assure you that every submission and petition received within the review period forms part of the official assessment record and will be considered accordingly,” a ministry statement said.
“The department has also confirmed details for the public consultations happening on the 6th and 7th November.
“After the public consultations, the department will convene a technical review committee.
“The director of environment has appointed members to be part of this committee. They are from relevant government agencies, academic institutions, technical organisations and other sectors with specialized knowledge of the proposal’s environmental, social, cultural, economic and technical impacts.
“The director will also engage with independent experts where further specialist expertise is required.”
According to the department, the committee will consider the EIA report, the submissions and petitions received during the review period, the outcome of the public consultations and any other relevant technical information.
“Its findings and recommendations will go to the director of environment.
“Thereafter, the director of environment will then make a decision on the EIA Report in accordance with the act and regulations.
“The decision may include approval subject to conditions, or rejection. Any person aggrieved by the decision may appeal to the environment tribunal.”
