THE LATEST APPEAL FROM SOSNA.

Positive news from the Slovak Karst - but support is still needed

Thanks to the unremitting efforts of SOSNA and others the Economic Committee of the Slovak parliament, an influential body, has agreed to adopt a new and important amendment to the Mining Law. This amendment includes a number of significant clauses:

- when proposing any new mining, quarrying or similar developments, particularly if in a protected area, the Mining Department should consult and take account of the views of the Environmental Department.

- the opening of new quarries requires official approval from the Environmental Department and of the local authorities, analogous to the requirements of the Building Law.

- existing land usage plans must be taken into account when the Mining Department considers applications for new quarrying sites. If such activities are not covered in the plan, an official amendment must be introduced before new quarrying or mining activities
are approved.

Parliament will consider the adoption of these Mining Law amendments on the 27. November 2001. SOSNA requests our support once again. We must react QUICKLY! If these amendments are adopted a vital stage in the battle to save the Slovak Karst will be won. If not, all applications to mine or quarry in the area which are currently in the pipeline could be granted from 1. January 2002 without examination and approval by the Environmental Department and local authorities. This could spell the end of the IBA and have tragic consequences for the future of the whole Slovak Karst as a World Heritage Site.

Please go to the link below to find mail texts in English to parliamentary groups and independent members of the Slovak Parliament.

David Conlin
Proact Coord

Texts - Nov 2001

[The mail will also be sent on behalf of Proact, and with the names of all current members of the Proact Team. Should members of the team wish to send their own letter, as copy or with personal amendments, please feel free to do so. The more - the merrier!]

Proact © David Conlin 2001