The Tribune

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

STATE Minister for Environment Zane Lightbourne downplayed deforestation-related concerns linked to the construction of a new $290m hospital in New Providence.

Mr Lightbourne acknowledged that deforestation is a common aspect of development but emphasised the need to balance development with environmental protection. He said officials are working closely with environmentalists to minimise negative impacts.

His comment yesterday came after Terry Miller, executive director of The Bahamas Association for Social Health and founder of EARTH Village, urged the government to halt the hospital project, citing concerns over the destruction of the Perpall Tract Wellfield, which he describes as the most ecologically sensitive area in New Providence.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has received approval from the Ministry of the Environment to proceed with the hospital’s construction.

Mr Lightbourne said agencies such as the Department of Forestry and the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection are responsible for meeting all environmental safeguards.

“We work closely with environmentalists to reduce harm and include necessary greenery in developments to counteract deforestation,” he said.