From:TheBahamasWeekly.com

Bahamas Information Services Updates
Draft Legislation for the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection Bill Introduced
May 7, 2015 - 2:38:37 PM




Statement by Hon. Kenred M. A. Dorsett M.P., Minister of the Environment and Housing:

Today, my ministry is releasing draft legislation for the establishment of the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection to the general public for commentary.  This bill proposes to implement measures that will increase environmental protection and oversight throughout our country.

The Government is committed to hearing from Bahamians to help shape this new legislation. We encourage all Bahamians to comment on this important piece of legislation that will help protect The Bahamas' beautiful and world renowned environment.

The draft proposes that the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection would have supervision over a number of environmental issues inclusive of the following:

  •     Environmental Protection Standards
  •     Regulations for the Discharge of Waste at Sea
  •     Environmental Emergency Programme
  •     Environmental Information, Research, Education and Training
The new Department of Environmental Planning and Protection will also consolidate all environmental protection and planning measures in one place to ensure timely response to environment and natural resource issues and emergencies.
  
The Government remains committed to the health and prosperity of The Bahamas and our fellow Bahamians. This draft bill demonstrates that as well as our commitment to the environmental health of The Bahamas.

I look forward to hearing from all environmentalists, stakeholders and the general public on this issue.  The draft bill can be accessed on the Ministry of Environment and Housing's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ministryofeh or on the Government's Website at www.bahamas.gov.  You can also collect a copy at the ministry's offices at Charlotte House, East and Shirley Streets.

For further information and to comment on the draft bill please contact:
    
    Coral Miller
    Ministry of the Environment and Housing
    2nd Floor, Charlotte House
    Charlotte and Shirley Streets
    P. O. Box N-4589
    Nassau,  Bahamas
    Telephone (242) 322-6005
    Email: coralmiller@bahamas.gov.bs

    
Elcott Coleby
Deputy Director
Bahamas Information Services
323-3814
477-7006



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