Minister Habet on Keeping New River Healthy

But certainly, A.S.R./B.S.I. is not the only stakeholder in the New River. There are other industries situated along the banks that the Department of Environment is working with to mitigate the effects of pollutants. Minister Habet spoke about his administration’s approach to keeping a healthy river.

Orlando Habet, Minister of Sustainable Development

“What we have to understand, we came in with a different management position. Although we are the regulatory agency, we believe more in working in collaboration with the different cooperation and companies. You don’t want to see that they are doing the right thing when you are there but when you turn your back it is not working. So that relationship, working together. So, for example we are doing their water testing but they are also doing theirs. Maybe we can compare what we are doing with what they are doing; sort of an auditing to make certain what they report is comparable. I think a big difference is the management style.”

Reporter

“Isn’t there a need for sanctions to get people to comply if the continuously violate?”

Orlando Habet

Orlando Habet

“Certainly, but I think we have to set the stage and assist in terms of communication so that they know what is right from wrong. We can give them all the regulations. But, if they don’t understand what is happening, they might not comply.”