Acting Kingdom Representative takes first steps at Selibon Lagun
On 15 November, the acting Kingdom Representative (wRv) replaced the Executive Council of the Public Entity Bonaire (OLB) with immediate effect for certain tasks related to Selibon Lagun. The ILT observed in its inspection report that the OLB had neglected a number of tasks related to Selibon Lagun for a long time, resulting in major risks to public health, nature, and the environment. Therefore, the wRv decided that correcting the violations observed, especially given the turmoil and the fires, could not wait any longer. Together with Selibon, the OLB, Lagun residents, the ILT, and the Ministries, the first steps are now being taken.
The violations with the most urgent risks need to be addressed in the short term. This mainly concerns the storage of biomedical waste in unrefrigerated shipping containers and the burial of offal. It also concerns the storage of asbestos-containing material, the lack of emission measurements at the waste incineration plant, and the fencing of the site.
Specialist approach
This process requires a specialist approach and takes several weeks to organise. ILT hazardous materials inspectors were at Lagun. Among other things, they held a reinspection at Selibon and took stock of the current situation.
On the basis of this reinspection, several talks were held last week to establish cooperation agreements to roll out this specialist approach. Discussions were held together with the most involved experts and the OLB about the prevention of further damage and a safe approach to protect the environment, public health, and nature.
Transparency
The wRv promised to keep all stakeholders well informed about all the actions he is going to take, along with all the various agencies. This is done through regular press releases, explanations to the Island Council, weekly meetings with the director of Selibon, with Pro Lagun, and with the Executive Council.
The wRv is committed to informing the Island Council and has invited them for an explanation of the steps that have already been taken.
Together, we continue to work towards a safe, future-proof landfill. This is what Bonaire deserves.