Public Consultations to Be Held on Sigatoka Iron Sands Project

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has confirmed that public consultations on the proposed Sigatoka Iron Sands Project will take place after the current Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) review period closes on 30 October.

The Ministry says more than a week’s notice will be given before the consultations, with careful consideration being given to venues, accessibility and timing to ensure affected communities and members of the public can participate.

In a statement, the Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change acknowledged concerns raised by landowners and the vanua of Tikina Nasigatoka, the Fiji Museum, civil society organisations, surfing and fishing communities, and members of the public.

The Ministry stressed that no decision has been made on the proposed project by Magma Mines Pte Ltd and that no outcome has been predetermined.

The EIA report is currently undergoing a statutory 21-working-day review process, which began on 2 October.

Members of the public have until 30 October to submit written comments, which will form part of the assessment process.

The report is available for inspection at the Ministry’s headquarters in Suva, the Department of Environment’s Lautoka office, Kulukulu Police Post, Sigatoka Town Council and the Nadroga/Navosa Provincial Office.

Following public consultations, a Technical Review Committee comprising relevant experts will assess the EIA report, public submissions and consultation outcomes before making recommendations to the Director of Environment.

The Ministry has assured the public that the assessment process will remain transparent and that all stakeholders will have an opportunity to contribute before any final decision is made.