Four research stations run by the Ministry of Agriculture have been issued non-compliance notices by the Department of Environment. Notices have been issued to the Koronivia Research Station in Nausori, Nawaicoba Research Station in Nadi, Legalega Research Station in Nadi and the Sigatoka Research Station.
The Koronivia Research Station was issued a non-compliance notice for not having a permit to dispose of solid waste, liquid waste and livestock waste for a construction facility at the premises.
The Department of Environment stated in its non-compliance notice that the action was taken under section 37(2) of the Environment Management Act 2005.
“The Waste and Pollution Control Administrator has reason to believe that this facility requires a waste disposal/waste recycling permit in respect of the regulated activity,” states the notice.
The Nawaicoba, Legalega and Sigatoka Research stations were issued non-compliance notices for issues with the disposal of solid and liquid waste. The Department of Environment had advised all the four research stations to apply for the relevant permits.
Questions sent to the Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, Vinesh Kumar, two weeks ago remain unanswered.
