Minister Weighs in on Deforestation

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – With eight days left for squatters to vacate crown land in the Carmichael area, environmental Minister Vaughn Miller says his focus will be on preventing similar illegal deforestation in the future.

Marlena Leonard reports.

Resources to stop illegal deforestation of crown land were limited, according to Minister of the Environment Vaughn Miller.

Miller weighed in on concerns over 500 acres of illegally deforested crown land in the Carmichael area, as he toured the historic Nassau Botanical Gardens and plans for its renovation and expansion.

Miller says while crown land is not a part of his portfolio, the environmental aspects are a major concern.

Squatters on the 500 acres of illegally deforested crown land in the Carmichael area of Western New Providence have just over a week left to vacate according to the time set by Minister of National Security Wayne Munroe.

Munroe expressed hope The Bahamas wildlife enforcement network would make an impact against those who intend to take advantage of the Bahamian ecosystem.

Miller says he has not personally surveyed the area in western New Providence but plans to in the near future.

Miller says reforestation efforts will be crucial and hopes educational campaigns will reduce illegal deforestation in the future.