Enviro Bill passed

THE National Council has passed the Environmental Management Bill that was referred to it for review after being passed by the National Assembly.

The bill provides for thorough environmental assessment studies and consultations with communities and relevant regional and local authorities before projects are undertaken. It further provides for the creation of a development advisory council, the appointment of an environmental commissioner and environmental officers.It lays down stiff sentences of N$500 000 or 25 years in prison for non-compliance and gives a lot of power to the new post of Environmental Commissioner and his or her deputy.It further provides for the creation of a development advisory council, the appointment of an environmental commissioner and environmental officers.It lays down stiff sentences of N$500 000 or 25 years in prison for non-compliance and gives a lot of power to the new post of Environmental Commissioner and his or her deputy.