Lekgotla
17 February 2009
âSharpening the Stingâ
âThe environmental compliance and enforcement Lekgotla comes at a time when
all eyes are set on government to see whether effective implementation can now
follow on from the development of policy and legislation." Speaking at the
third enforcement and Compliance Lekgotla at Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape,
Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Environmental Quality and Protection, Ms
Joanne Yawitch said the department has spent significant time over the last few
years drafting and amending legislation for the effective regulation of
environmental issues (which includes environment, biodiversity and marine). The
framework therefore exists for the protection of the environment and it is time
for the focus of the inspectorate to shift towards implementation of this
legislation, including the effective compliance monitoring and enforcement.
This yearâs theme âsharpening the stingâ focuses on developing strategies to
overcome challenges and significantly increase the impact of the inspectorateâs
work. Commonly known as the green scorpions, the Environmental Management
Inspectorate (EMI), was formed in 2006. It is a network of designated
Environmenta; Management Inspectors (EMIs) from various institutions involved
in compliance monitoring and enforcement.
DDG Yawitch urged the inspectorate to intensify its compliance and
enforcement activities and also strengthen relationships with their enforcement
partners. She highlighted the signing of the standard operating procedure for
co-operation between the inspectorate and the South African Police Service
(SAPS) on Wednesday, 18 February, as the beginning of a much clearer and
stronger partnership which will lead to the more effective investigation and
prosecution of environmental crimes.
The Deputy Director-General thanked the inspectorate for their dedication
and commitment, saying that the recognition of the work of the âgreen
scorpionsâ is a tribute to their tireless dedication and effort despite all the
challenges they experience. Deserving inspectors, investigators and prosecutors
will be rewarded on Wednesday the 18th for their excellent work and commitment.
The 2007/08 compliance and enforcement report and the authorisation manual will
also be launched on Wednesday at a gala event.
The Lekgotla is also attended by representatives from SAPS, National
Prosecuting Authority (NPA), South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the
United Kingdom Environment Agency who will share their experience with South
Africa.
Enquiries:
Frances Craigie
Cell: 082 454 6637
Lizzy Suping
Tel: 012 310 3310
Cell: 083 758 0553
Issued by: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
17 February 2009
Source: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
(http://www.environment.gov.za/)
