Fiji Environment Ministry rejects political pressure in project approvals and calls for ethical development
Prospective developers in Fiji are being urged to stop using political connections to push faster environmental approvals. The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment, Sivendra Michael, described such tactics as unethical, uncalled for, and not to be tolerated, insisting that approvals must follow established procedures and timelines.
Michael told this newspaper that some proponents are bypassing proper processes by appealing directly to ministers and other political leaders to accelerate consideration of their projects, thereby undermining the integrity of environmental governance. He stressed that talking to the processing officers is the correct channel, not leveraging affiliations or relationships to gain priority. “The law is the law, and bending it to gain advantage is not how Fiji should operate,” he said, calling the behavior a direct challenge to the integrity of Fiji’s environmental governance.
The ministry is calling for a nationwide conversation on “ethical development.” developers must not only comply with the law but also understand and respect legislated timelines. Under Fiji’s Environment Management Act 2005, the scoping stage of a development proposal must be completed within 30 days of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) officer receiving it, and a decision on the report must be made within 14 days after the scoping period ends. The law also allows public viewing of EIA reports within 32 days of submission. Michael noted that attempts to rush these steps reflect poor planning rather than bureaucratic delay and emphasized that timely lodgement in advance is the responsibility of developers.
The minister highlighted that every application goes through technical reviews, public consultations, and safeguards to protect communities and ecosystems. He warned that those who have been waiting for months or weeks should not expect preferential treatment and urged adherence to ethical standards that balance development with environmental protection.
Raising the bar on compliance, Michael pointed out that while a large number of consultants prepare EIAs, not all reports meet the required standards. He urged proponents to disclose the full nature of the development, outline potential risks, and explain mitigation measures. He stressed that an approval is not the final step; monitoring is essential to ensure commitments in EIAs are honoured on the ground. Fiji’s rapid development trajectory means more projects will come forward, but the ministry will push back against unethical practices and continue strengthening processes. “We have processes. If your application is lodged, there are legislated timelines. You need to work within those timelines and follow the process,” he said, reaffirming that political pressure cannot override the rule of law.
Context and related developments
– The ministry has previously underscored the importance of integrity in the EIA process, including round-table discussions with consultants and approving authorities, with strict consequences for fraud or misconduct. Only principal EIA consultants are authorized to prepare reports, while associates may assist in developing Environmental Management Plans.
– In addition, recent discussions have highlighted ongoing efforts to improve EIA guidelines across sectors, including mining and quarrying, to ensure decisions are well-informed and grounded in science, with provisions like environmental bonds to cover rehabilitation if obligations aren’t met.
– Past developments, such as concerns around coastal projects and urban developments, further emphasize the need for robust public participation and strict regulatory adherence to safeguard communities and the environment.
What this means for developers and communities
– Developers should plan ahead and lodge complete applications that disclose the full scope, risks, and mitigation strategies.
– Public consultation processes remain essential and must be accessible to communities to ensure informed decision-making.
– Monitoring and enforcement will be critical after approvals to ensure commitments are fulfilled on the ground.
Summary
The Fiji Ministry of Environment is taking a firm stance against using political leverage to influence environmental approvals. By reaffirming statutory timelines, emphasizing ethical development, and reiterating the need for ongoing monitoring, the ministry aims to strengthen environmental governance while promoting responsible development.
Positive outlook
This approach signals a durable commitment to transparent, standards-based development in Fiji. By reinforcing rules, enhancing oversight, and encouraging ethical practices among developers and consultants, Fiji can pursuing growth that protects its natural resources and communities, potentially increasing investor confidence in a well-regulated regulatory environment.
Leave a comment