Environment Bill

Special Select Parliamentary hearings on the controversial national Environment Bill were held this past week after a three-month delay. Environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have unanimously voiced their objections to the bill highlighting that it gives too much power to the Minister for Environment. Under the proposed bill the right to appeal the Minister's decision to the courts is denied. Under the legislation the Minister, not Parliament or local officials would have the final say on Environmental Impact Assessments, and on all outer island environmental matters. NGOs also object to the requirement calling for them to register with and receive the Minister's approval before conducting or advising on any environmental matters. Over 2,000 signatures supporting the NGO's position in opposing the bill were gathered in just 10 days. Current Cook Islands population is estimated at about 12,000 with outward migration continuing to accelerate.

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