Clarifying plastic ban

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I write to provide what I feel is the necessary clarification to a story published on the front page of The Gleaner, September 18, 2018, related to the ban on plastics.

There are two major points which must be clarified and subsequently retracted. These are:

The Climate Change Division of the Ministry of Economic Growth & Job Creation is NOT the lead agency or body responsible for the implementation of the prescribed ban as outlined in my press conference on Monday, September 17, 2018.

It is the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) in collaboration with the Environment and Risk Management Branch of the ministry which was tasked by Cabinet to lead this process.

Legislation is NOT required to facilitate the ban on single-use plastic bags or polystyrene foam containers. Section 8-13 of the Trade Act states that where necessary a ministerial order from the industry minister can be promulgated to impose such a ban. Also, the relevant provisions of the Natural Resources Conservation Authority Act will apply. As stated at the press conference, legislation is required only for the Deposit Refund Scheme for Plastic (PET) Bottles.

I ask that all further queries on this matter be directed to Mr Peter Knight, the CEO of NEPA.

Daryl W. Vaz, MP

Minister without Portfolio

Ministry of Economic Growth & Job Creation