Appeal for cleaner energy for Praslin and La Digue

SNP Leader Wavel Ramkalawan made a passionate plea for members of the National Assembly to vote in favour of a motion calling for redress for Praslinois living with the noise and toxic fumes of the power station on the island. He also sketched out his vision for a cleaner and more environmentally sustainable energy source for both Praslin and La Digue. Members of Parti Lepep, grudgingly and reluctantly, voted in favour.

The motion brought by the SNP leader called more specifically for a survey to be carried out to establish if residents in the immediate area of the power station had developed asthma or any other adverse health conditions as a result of inhaling toxic fumes from the diesel generators. Mr. Ramkalawan further requested that if any of the facts should be confirmed, immediate remedial action should be taken to prevent further consequences.

“It is interesting that this morning, Minister Morgan who is responsible for energy and environment, came before us to tell us that he had found money to compensate the residents of La Misere for the suffering and pain of the past six months. What about those people who have been suffering for years”, he asked, “can they expect a solution soon?”

Mr Ramkalawan cited scientific information that clearly showed the dangers of inhaling soot and toxic fumes on a regular basis. He said that his numerous visits to the area has shown cases of severe asthma and other respiratory problems. “Every house now has a nebulizer, not just for children, but also for those who have developed asthma during their adult years,” he added.

The SNP leader laid out his vision for Praslin and La Digue to be made free of carbon emissions generated by power stations. Large hotels and new developments should be required to invest in the production of clean energy. Private homes should be encouraged to do so as well through fiscal measures, he said. Mr. Ramkalawan supported the plan for an electricity cable from Mahé to the two islands, with a wind and solar facility for stepping up the current on the Mamelles rocks, located midway.

Parti Lepep members reacted angrily to the motion, accusing the SNP of trying to make political mileage. They however said they would vote in favour not for any other reason but for solidarity with their Baie Ste Anne representative, who they argued had tried hard to get the issue resolved over the years.