You can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
Dear Editor, Deep sea mining (DSM) is a controversial topic in our country at present.
We have Government and their supporters claiming through paid advertisements in this paper, social media posts, radio personalities paid by DSM companies, and so much more that everything is as it should be as they push forward without any thought of an alternative … that we MUST pursue this pathway if their paid scientists tell us, it will be okay.
Read MoreTo address potential concerns and further strengthen the protection of the Cook Islands’ interests, I have emailed the Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) the following additions or amendments to the draft seabed mining regulations.
Read MoreDear Editor, In an interview gathering exercise for a BBC podcast on seabed mining (SBM) over a week ago, I mentioned that we have disproportionate representation i.e. my one vote is worth about 10 Raro votes. You can see why government makes sure to buddy buddy with the pa enua.
Read MoreI write with a heavy heart, disappointed by the narrow-mindedness I see in some of my fellow Cook Islanders when it comes to seabed minerals exploration.
Too many are quick to dismiss it without taking the time to understand the science behind it. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to take an informed approach.
Read MoreI would like to speak as an environmentally concerned Cook Islander, hearing concerns raised by Dr Teina Rongo on Temu Okotai’s radio show yesterday morning (Monday).
I felt that our local Seabed Mining Authority is losing control of the situation.
They emphasised the unknown and confirmed life in the deep ocean, but I got the impression that they await more and more advantage findings.
Read MoreI thank Ms Alex (Herman) for her reply to my previous letter regarding DSM (Deep Sea Mining) or SBM (Sea Bed Mining) which is what some are hoping to do in our EEZ.
Read MoreDear Editor, I recall a public consultation in Mauke. There were two motions for consideration.
The first motion YES for the completion of the ten years Precautionary Research still ongoing and NO to any actual DSM (deep sea mining) activities to begin.
The second motion was NO to the ongoing ten years Precautionary Research and YES to the actual DSM activities to start up asap (as soon as possible).
A few people spoke against DSM at that public consultation, but then it was concluded, by the Government officials that afternoon, that the majority agreed to the YES motion. The public meeting was over and the dinner provided was excellent, I must say.
Read MoreMinister Brown’s response to Jacqui Evans’s letter to the editor, refuting suggestions that the government is communicating false information to its people.
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