P.U.M.A. issues response

Dear Editor,

RE: Open letter to P.U.M.A.

We write in response to Violine Betham’s letter published in the Samoa Observer dated 8 July 2016 regarding P.U.M.A.’s handling of a development consent application for an accommodation development in Lotopa. 

We acknowledge the concerns and frustrations raised by Mrs. Betham and wish to provide the following response in relation to this case.

The office has undertaken a number of actions since the non-consented development works were first brought to our attention in November 2015. These actions include the issuing of a Stop Order in November 2015 as well as follow–up instructions to the developer to submit the required documentation. As construction works did not cease, we took subsequent action in March 2016 to obtain an Interim Injunction from the Court instructing the developer to cease all works. 

Further, the matter was presented before the Supreme Court to ensure the developer complies with the Interim Injunction.

Following this and upon instructions from our office, the developer submitted further information and undertook remedial works in response to some of Mrs. Betham’s complaints. 

The office has and continues to work in good faith in an effort to resolve the dispute between Mrs. Betham and the developer and has met with both parties, both separately and together, to resolve issues raised. 

Furthermore, we would like to emphasise that our office handles all concerns from the public with seriousness and will take all reasonable steps to resolve issues raised.

 

Suluimalo Amataga Penaia 

C.E.O. Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment

Samoa Observer

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