JAMAICA | Increase compensation to Rio Cobre Fisher Folks says PNP

Fisher Folks Take the Hardest Hit after Fish Kill 

The Opposition notes the recent update given by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation Senator Matthew Samuda, on the Fisk Kill in the Rio Cobre in  July of this year.

While we commend the Minister for the detailed approach and the acceptance of the urgent need for multi stakeholder consultation to resolve these significant issues, the Opposition is disappointed with the allocation of funds to the fisher folks.

Opposition Spokesperson on Land Environment and Climate Change, Senator Sophia Frazer-Binns noted that of all the categories of beneficiaries of the fund, the fisher folks are the ones who need the greatest assistance but suffered the largest percentage reduction in the sum recommended and sum received.

Noting that the NRCA/NEPA and NIC received the full amount requested,  Senator Frazer-Binns opined that the plight of the fisher folks and the loss to their livelihood is such that priority should be given to this category.

“Accordingly, in light of the inadequacy of the available funds, the Government of Jamaica including its Agencies should shoulder the short fall and utilize the funds to adequately address the social impact of the pollution”, said Senator Frazer-Binns. The Opposition supports the intent of the Minster to make provisions for additional social support for the residents and calls on the Prime Minister as the Minister with responsibility not to delay in this endeavour. 

The deadline for the completion of the Effluent Pond as announced by the Minister was October 31. We therefore seek confirmation as to whether the Pond has been completed and request that the Government provides an immediate update of all closure plans for all industrial operations nationally. 

Senator Frazer-Binns insists that in carrying out its monitoring and regulatory functions, NEPA should update the country periodically on the progress of the closure plans and any new bonds by companies.

The Opposition is heartened by the expressed intention of the Minster to provide legal protection to the  Rio Cobre Basin, review the Environmental Performance Bonds to make them more adequate, undertake detailed social impact studies as well as review the existing critical environmental legislation including the NRCA and Wildlife Protection Acts. 

We remain ready to share our views and play our part in the resolution of this matter and all matters impacting on national development.

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