Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced in Parliament that the penalty for littering is set at $40, regardless of whether the offender is found dumping a vehicle, a refrigerator, or simply a plastic bag. He highlighted that the government is currently pursuing a review and amendment of the Litter Act of 2008.
Rabuka emphasized that for corporate entities found guilty of littering, the fine is substantially higher at $2,000, irrespective of the type or amount of waste they dispose of. He criticized the existing penalties as insufficient for serious environmental violations and noted that the Act has vague definitions regarding public areas and lacks clear boundaries for enforcement.
Additionally, the Prime Minister pointed out that the Ministry of Environment is working diligently to enhance enforcement measures. He stated that the primary issue lies not with the Act itself but with its enforcement. Rabuka acknowledged the Ministry’s recognition of the inadequacies in the Litter Act of 2008 and its 2010 amendment, stressing the importance of strengthening enforcement and implementation through a thorough review.