You can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
A recent online opinion poll conducted in the Cook Islands revealed that 66 per cent of residents oppose deep sea mining, while 49 per cent disapprove of exploration.
The government regulator overseeing seabed minerals activities in the Cook Islands rejected the poll result saying that the methodology was flawed and “did not fully capture the breadth of the public’s views on this complex issue”.
Read MorePrime Minister Mark Brown has welcomed the At Sea,Sail Out Rally against deep-sea mining but has expressed reservations about the call for a moratorium on deep-sea activities.
The “peaceful rally” at sea and on land to call for a precautionary pause to deep sea mining is organised by Ocean Ancestors, a collective of individuals, NGOs, and businesses united by their shared passion for protecting the ocean. It will be held this afternoon, starting at 4pm, at the Avarua Harbour (Trader Jacks carpark).
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 MoreThe upcoming “Sail Out Rally”, calling for a precautionary pause on deep sea mining, is gaining momentum with a “printing for the protection of our ocean” campaign at the Punanga Nui Market.
Read MoreThe Opposition leader has welcomed the regulatory framework for deep-sea mining but maintains the stance against any mining activities until ‘environmentally friendly technology’ is available and Cook Islanders are fully involved.
Read MoreJune Hosking, president of the environment group Te Ipukarea Society, claims that government workers, including those in leadership roles, are being restricted from speaking publicly against seabed mining.
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