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Last Updated: Dec 29, 2011 - 2:18:31 AM |
The Committee to Protect and Preserve The Bahamas For Future Generations
Press Release In Response To Earl Deveaux
March 3rd. 2010.
The committee is shocked and appalled by the response of The Minister for the Environment to the very serious issues raised by the Committee with regard to the environmental devastation that has occurred and continues to occur at Saunders Beach.
The Minister’s response is soaked in petty politics, smoke and mirrors and obvious insecurity. Quite frankly his response was disrespectful and an insult to the intelligence of many Bahamians who consider this issue of paramount importance. The Minister’s attempt to belittle the issue is further evidence of the Committee’s claim that he should resign immediately.
The Minister has betrayed the sacred trust of the Prime Minister and the Bahamian people. The Committee has made a serious allegation about the Minister’s involvement in the selection of Blue Engineering to conduct the Environmental Impact Assessment and we note that with all that he did say, most of which was irrelevant to the issue, he conveniently failed to address a matter that goes directly to his character and conduct as a Minister.
The fact is that the Minister and government were warned that the beach would erode. The fact is that the beach is not coming back. The fact is that the damage to the environment and loss of Saunders beach was the Minister’s duty to protect against. The evidence is clear that the Minister has failed miserably and if he has any thread of honour he will resign. If he fails to act in an honourable manner, it is incumbent upon the Prime Minister to demand his resignation. The Committee expects no less and it will continue to call on the government to replace this Minister with someone who is capable of placing the public’s interest ahead of special interest.
The Prime Minister must act to restore the confidence of the public in this vital Ministry as presently the public’s confidence in the Minister has been eroded in similar fashion to Saunders beach.
Finally, Mr. Deveaux’s future political endeavors whether in Marathon or elsewhere is of no concern of the Committee or myself. However, his responsibility as Minister of the Environment is the concern of the Committee and the public and we will continue to bring pressure to bear upon this Minister until such time as he or the Prime Minister do that which is honourable.
© Copyright 2010 by thebahamasweekly.com
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