Group questions Namatanai MP’s stance

A recent response by the Namatanai MP on Radio New Zealand over the experimental seabed mining has not gone down well with some locals.

In the May 16th article, Walter Schnaubelt was reported to have said though too much remained unknown about the environmental impacts of seabed mining, ‘that doesn't mean that we just shut the door’.

Schnaubelt further said he was keeping an open mind on potential seabed mining, and he would maintain a neutral stand until adequate information on the benefits of the Solwara 1 project are made available to him.

Following his statement, the Alliance of Solwara Warriors said as an educated elite, Schnaubelt has to come out clear on his stance, as being neutral only indicates two reasons:

  • The benefits of seabed mining to support his election promises
  • And to swing when people react as it will have a political implication

Furthermore, they said the shark calling culture is also under threat, hence why preach tourism when our action is contradictory.

“We lose our culture and we lose our identity.”

“The Morgado Square, which is the breeding ground for tuna, is also under threat. Fisheries is a sustainable and renewable resource, the local and national economy will be affected,” said the Alliance.

Topaio Landowners Association Public Relations Officer, Towaira Manget, challenges the MP to look into sustainable development project rather than focus on the benefits of experimental seabed mining.

He commended the Alliance of Solwara Warriors for taking the fight and speaking for the silent local majority.

Apart from the vocal Alliance of Solwara Warriors, environmental experts, churches and NGOs have also protested against the first-of-its-kind seabed mining.

Author: 
Carmella Gware