Today, my ministry is releasing draft legislation for the establishment of the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection to the general public for commentary. This bill proposes to implement measures that will increase environmental protection and oversight throughout our country.

The Government is committed to hearing from Bahamians to help shape this new legislation. We encourage all Bahamians to comment on this important piece of legislation that will help protect The Bahamas' beautiful and world renowned environment.

The draft proposes that the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection would have supervision over a number of environmental issues inclusive of the following:

Environmental Protection Standards

Regulations for the Discharge of Waste at Sea

Environmental Emergency Programme

Environmental Information, Research, Education and Training

The new Department of Environmental Planning and Protection will also consolidate all environmental protection and planning measures in one place to ensure timely response to environment and natural resource issues and emergencies.

The Government remains committed to the health and prosperity of The Bahamas and our fellow Bahamians. This draft bill demonstrates that as well as our commitment to the environmental health of The Bahamas.

I look forward to hearing from all environmentalists, stakeholders and the general public on this issue. The draft bill can be accessed on the Ministry of Environment and Housing's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ministryofeh or on the Government's Website at www.bahamas.gov. You can also collect a copy at the ministry's offices at Charlotte House, East and Shirley Streets.