Environmentalists toast EMA port decision

The port is to be used to import heavy tools and parts for the building of the controversial Essar steel mill. In a release issued yesterday, the EMA said it will not consider any proposal for the CEC until problems in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) submitted by Essar are rectified. To this end the EMA will review the application in 80 working days — by November 25.

Kublalsingh said a steel mill will impact negatively on the environment in the area of Pranz Gardens and environs.

Kublalsingh said the EIA did not address the presence of 150 fisheries in the area. “Obviously the construction of a port for the steel mill will be very bad for the coast line and the mangrove,” Kublalsingh warned. Kublalsingh is hoping the EMA refuses the construction of the port.

Vine said all scientific evidence should prove the port project must not continue. Vine said the EMA identified several areas for further analysis. He said information should be put forward so that right decisions can be made for the benefit of residents and the environment.

Meanwhile, protests against the port continue. Kublalsingh’s parents, Ray and Villma Kublalsingh are preparing a 10,000-signature-petition of persons against the port to be sent to Prime Minister Patrick Manning and President George Maxwell Richards.