Forum backs call for action on illegal logging

Forum backs call for action on illegal logging

The Eco-Forestry Forum is backing the call from the Forest Industries Association for tougher action on illegal logging.

“We welcome the call this week from the FIA for operating license’s to be revoked where logging companies are operating illegally”, says the Forum.

The Forest Industries Association has publicly called on the Forest Authority to stop logging by a named company which it alleges is operating illegally in Central Province.

But the Forum says the FIA should publicly condemn all illegal and unsustainable logging operations and not just pick on operators who are not its members.

“If the FIA is genuinely interested in a legal and sustainable forest industry, rather than just protecting its member’s interests, it must oppose all illegal logging operations”, says the Forum.

Recent Compliance Audits commissioned by the Government indicate that some of PNG’s largest logging projects are being operated illegally by companies that are FIA members, claims the Forum.

The Forum is also asking the FIA to explain why it blocked calls for the group of companies whose operations it is now condemning to be deregistered for other illegal activities back in 2003.

ENDS

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