The Leader of the Opposition, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan has pledged to support the Department of Risk and Disaster Management’s (DRDM) effort to become a permanent member of the planning authority.
Speaking during a climate change workshop organized this week for members of the National Assembly, Mr Ramkalawan described it as unacceptable for such an important institution that is laboring to reduce the country’s disaster risks and vulnerabilities to be excluded on the panel.
DRDM last served on the planning authority in 2007. Mr Ramkalawan said he will bring a motion to the Assembly calling on government to reserve a seat for DRDM on this powerful authority.
“Since there is no policy that requires a risk assessment before any development, the DRDM can contribute immensely in increasing the authority’s capacity in assessing risks,” he said.
Mr Ramkalawan highlighted the contradictions that exist in government policies and institutions. He said whilst the government is busy with various developments projects, it is also marginalizing state institutions and local professionals who want to address the risks factors.
Speaking in the wake of the La Misere pollution incident, Mr Ramkalawan has urged government to demonstrate real and practical engagement in sustaining Seychelles’ environment.
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