Opposition MP Premila Kumar has sharply criticised the proposed waste-to-energy and private port development at Vuda Point, arguing the project should not have entered the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process.
“We are being offered a contract to become the Pacific’s rubbish bin,” she said while responding to an update in Parliament by Minister for Environment Lynda Tabuya.
Ms Kumar raised concerns over environmental and health risks, arguing the project would not meet standards applied elsewhere.
She questioned why Fiji should accept a development she claims had been rejected in Australia for years because of risks to air quality, water systems and human health.
“Our nation’s sovereignty is not on sale.
“The proposed Vuda Sovereignty Waste to Energy incinerator is not an investment in Fiji’s future.”
She warned that the same risks could be transferred to Fiji, impacting communities, fishing grounds and future generations.
Concerns were also raised about the potential importation of waste and its implications for local communities.
In response, Ms Tabuya defended the EIA process, emphasising that it remains ongoing and independent.
“A meeting is not a decision,” she said.
“A proposal is not a permit. A discussion is not an approval.”
She highlighted strong public engagement, noting hundreds of written submissions and thousands of petition signatures had been received. The assessment is now in its technical review stage and will be guided by law, evidence and is subject to appeal.
