IFP alarmed at lack of progress with plastic bag recycling

MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY:
MS CONNIE ZIKALALA MP
IFP SPOKESPERSON FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS & TOURISM

November 8, 2006

The IFP spokesperson for Environmental Affairs & Tourism, Ms Connie Zikalala, expressed dismay at the lack of progress regarding the recycling of plastic bags. Ms Zikalala said:

"The IFP finds it appalling that since 2003 not one plastic bag has been recycled although consumers have been levied with the 3c tax since May 2003."

"It is alleged that delays in implementing any recycling projects have been due to the delay in acquiring funds from Treasury, but more so from the delay in attaining the necessary permits, environmental impact assessments and lease agreements from municipalities for land on which the recycling plants will be built."

Ms Zikalala further stated that this is an unnecessary delay, "especially when you consider that Minister Van Schalkwyk changed the system dealing with environmental impact assessments - it should not take three years for this to be accomplished".

In conclusion, Ms Zikalala urged the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism to, "relook at the applications for the necessary permits, environmental impact assessments and leases for the recycling projects to be implemented. Three years are far too long for these levy funds to be unused."


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Ms Connie Zikalala MP: 083 282 8384
Noleen Hendricks: 082 886 9848