Faipule calls for PNRS board to answer questions on permits and the review process

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Last week, Fofo Faipule Andra Tereise Samoa called on the Chair of the House Commerce Committee, to call in the PNRS Board (Project Notification and Review System Board) for a discussion with lawmakers on many issues that the public needs to understand.

Samoa said the government board needs to be questioned on various projects that have been granted permits, i.e, if the review process used for these permits following Title 24 and Title 26 of the administrative procedures for protection of the environment and coastal resources.

She said that safeguarding our water resources, wetlands, reef system, rainforest and wildlife is vital.

The Speaker thanked Samoa for her concern agreeing the Fono needs to look at issues like this to make sure the government is playing its role according to the law.

Faipule Titiali’i Kitara Vaiau echoed Samoa’s concern. He said, he also has received complaints from members of the public about some of the ongoing projects for which no permits have been issued.

Committee chair Faipule Samuel Ioka Ale Meleisea originally scheduled the hearing this past Thursday, however, the hearing was postponed to this week.