HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC – The Bermuda government says it will not extend the three-week timeline for public consultation on the proposed clean air and water legislation
A spokesman for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said the department wanted to remind the public that the Clean Air and Water Resources Amendment Bill public consultations will conclude on July 10.
“Launched on June 19, the three-week consultation period provides a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to review and offer feedback on the proposed environmental policies,” the spokesman added.
The US-based environmental consultancy firm Earth Forward Group (EFG) had called on the Government to extend the deadline for feedback so that it could be adequately considered.
The group, which said it has been working with the Bermuda Clean Air Coalition and the Bermuda Environmental Sustainability Taskforce, said the three-week window for public consultation needed to be increased.
Last week, the EFG noted that the European Union’s Better Regulation agenda allows up to 28 weeks of consultation for legislation, while Britain recommends a minimum of 12 weeks.
“If the Government of Bermuda truly values their public’s response, they would align Bermuda’s legislative process more closely with international standards of transparency and engagement, demonstrating a genuine commitment to soliciting and incorporating public feedback.”
It also noted that the consultation was launched during the summer holidays when many families will be off the island and less able to participate.
The Clean Air Amendment Bill aims to refine the limits of pollutants to help reduce acute and chronic risks to the public and the environment. At the same time, the Water Resources Amendment Bill is intended to support the Government’s crackdown on water polluters.
However, the DENR spokesman said there had been ample review time, and the three-week consultation period ensured stakeholders had sufficient time to examine the proposed policies and provide thoughtful feedback thoroughly.
“This duration aligns with best practices for public consultations, ensuring ample time for review and response,” said the spokesman, adding that the DENR had made significant efforts to foster comprehensive stakeholder engagement.
“At the outset of the consultation period, the DENR reached out directly to all relevant environmental groups and provided opportunities for detailed ‘one-on-one’ discussions by the technical team about the consultation materials.”
The spokesman said there were also “continued submission opportunities” and that “although the official consultation period concludes on July 10, the DENR remains committed to listening to all voices.
“Individuals and organizations can continue to submit their feedback directly via e-mail …The DENR extends its gratitude to all who have provided their input and reaffirms its dedication to an open and transparent consultation process.
“We encourage all stakeholders to use the remaining time to share their valuable insights and feedback. Your input is essential in shaping effective and sustainable environmental policies,” the spokesman added.
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