green light go ahead....mrc to soar!

'SAVE THE WILD COAST' CAMPAIGN – RECORD OF DECISION ISSUED FOR THE GO AHEAD ON THE N2 TOLL ROAD

4 December 2003 – MEDIA RELEASE issued by WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa)

The Wildlife and Environment Society of SA (WESSA) has expressed its deep regret at the decision taken by the Director General Dr C. Olver to give the go ahead for the controversial 80 kms of the N2 Toll Road, through the Eastern Cape.

Said Cathy Kay, the National Director Conservation, for the Wildlife and Environment Society, “Dr Olver has indirectly given Mineral Resource Commodities, the Australian mining company the green light to mine on the Wild Coast”

The Mining projects viability hinges on the existence of an excellent road network as land haulage costs represent the biggest individual item in the cost structure. Dr Olver has just solved this cost structure for them.

Kay said that Dr Olver has clearly flouted the regulations promulgated by his own Department in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment requirements, as acknowledged by the Bohlweki Environmental, the consultants. Alternatives were never considered in depth nor were the secondary impacts said Karen Kück as acknowledged by Conservation International.

It is ironic says Kay, that the biodiversity Act was promulgated by Parliament two weeks ago. Minister Moosa stated on national radio that “South Africa must jealously guard its Biodiversity.” Yet here we are about to put a superhighway through the 235th global hotspot of biodiversity.

As with all other major SDI roads people migrate to the road in search of passing trade and ribbon development occurs. Towns such as Bizana that have a population of 204,000 will be bypassed. It goes without saying that people will move toward Mazamba to catch passing trade.

The Department has also abdicated its responsibility in terms of the Intent to Toll. The National Environment Management Act 107 of 1998 clearly states that the Department must investigate social, economic and ecological issues.

WESSA always knew that this was going to be a difficult campaign, says Kay. However what we have proved is that power, politics and next years elections have all had a role to play. Environment will always take the rear seat and this has been categorically proved when viable alternatives for a win-win situation were available.

WESSA will definitely appeal the Record of Decision.

Ends