No developments at Qamea reef; ‘maybe diving and exploration’ – Minister

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Waves break over the Qamea reef. Picture: TROPICSURF.COM

There is no development taking place on the Qamea Island reef in Taveuni, Vanua Levu, and nor will any approval be granted for developments that will have destructive impacts on the environment.

Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment Dr Mahendra Reddy made the comment in response to concerns raised by farmers on Taveuni on the Qamea Reef Project, at the same time expressing opposition to the proposed project.

Mr Reddy told the farmers that any proposed development works or businesses that damaged and disturbed the ecological balance of the environment would be rejected for the benefit of future generations.

He said if an investor wanted to come and invest in Fiji, they needed to apply with Investment Fiji for a permit to explore.

“They’re exploring it and then they will submit to the Ministry of Environment for an Environmental Impact Assessment, that’s where it is at the moment,” Mr Reddy said in a statement from the ministry.

“There’s no approval given and the Ministry of Environment will not give any approval to any investor who will damage our environment, including the reefs.

“There is no development there (Qamea), nothing, they may be diving and exploring but no development will happen there that has a negative impact on the environment.

“But I want to reiterate that no one will touch that reef, no one will be allowed to touch that reef, simple as that.”

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