The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change says no decision has been made on the proposed Kulukulu Sands, Sigatoka Iron Sands Project, as concerns mount over the environmental impact assessment (EIA) review process.
In a statement, the ministry PS Shivendra Michael acknowledged concerns raised by the vanua and landowners of Tikina Nasigatoka, the Fiji Museum, civil society, surfing and fishing communities, and members of the public.
He said public interest was welcome and was an important part of the EIA process.
“No decision has been made, and no outcome is predetermined,” he said.
The EIA report for the proposed project, submitted by Magma Mines Pte Ltd under Special Prospecting Licence (SPL) 1495, is currently undergoing the Department of Environment’s statutory review process.
The ministry said the report was prepared by an EIA registered consultant commissioned by the project proponent, while the department’s role was to assess it.
The legislated 21-working-day review period began on October 2, when the report was made available for public inspection.
Written submissions must be received by October 30 and will form part of the assessment process.
The report is available for inspection at five locations: the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change headquarters at Bali Tower in Suva, the Department of Environment’s Western Division office in Lautoka, Kulukulu Police Post, Sigatoka Town Council and the Nadroga/Navosa Provincial Office in Sigatoka.
The department is also finalising arrangements for public consultations, which will take place after the viewing period closes.
The ministry said more than a week’s notice would be given of the consultation dates and venues, with consideration being given to accessibility, timing and community participation.
Following the consultations, a Technical Review Committee will be convened to examine the EIA report, written submissions, consultation outcomes and other relevant technical information.
The Director of Environment may appoint up to 10 experts to the committee, drawing on expertise from government agencies, academic institutions, technical organisations and other relevant sectors. An independent consultant may also be appointed if additional specialist expertise is required.
The committee’s findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Director of Environment to inform the department’s final assessment and determination.
The ministry said it remained committed to a transparent, robust and participatory process, ensuring interested stakeholders had an opportunity to contribute before a decision was made on the proposed project.
