Residents close to the Baie Ste. Anne quarry on Praslin have begun to suffer from the consequences of its activities. Many would like the Government to step in and protect their homes and their health from the effects.
The Baie Ste. Anne residents are now going through the same situation that Pointe Larue residents suffered for years from the presence of the UCPS quarry there. Their complaints and public pressure eventually paid off as the company took steps to correct the situation. This shows that measures can be taken if the company feels the pressure.
For the moment, the authorities concerned are closing their ears to the problem. SNP leader Wavel Ramkalawan sent in a private notice question this week for the minister for Home Affairs, Environment and Transport, Joel Morgan. But the question was not accepted on the ground that the matter was not urgent. Yet for the residents it is very urgent.
Many homes are already suffering from cracks because of the blasting. But the more pressing worry is that the wind during the north-east monsoon, which begins in October, blow the dust directly towards the homes in the area. Many residents are already complaining of asthmatic conditions.
The operators of the quarry can correct the situation. It should not be a question of money since these businesses make huge profits. They can manage their activities and make the necessary investments to protect people who are now paying the price for the profits they make.
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