The EPA says it will be enforcing littering penalties against defaulters through the Monitoring and Enforcement Unit it has established to execute its anti-littering programme.
In a press release the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said the Unit has been established within its Environmental Management Division. It is tasked with promoting a healthy environment and an enhanced quality of life. The programme will be implemented in phases, with the pilot activities executed along the east bank, and east coast of Demerara.
The programme is being implemented in collaboration with stakeholders such as ministries and neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs) in the relevant areas. Stakeholders are expected to assist in providing information to the Unit so that action, including prosecution, can be taken against offenders.
In executing the programme, the EPA will be enforcing the provisions of its legislation and the responsibility conferred upon it under Section 34 of the Act. According to the Act any person who “leaves anything in any manner whatsoever in circumstances as to cause or contribute to, or tend to lead to litter shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable to the penalties prescribed under paragraph (a) of the Fifth Schedule.” The penalties include “a fine of not less than $10,000 nor more than $50,000 “and “a fine of not less than $30,000 or more than $80,000,” respectively.
The EPA said it has already held discussions with one NDC which agreed to participate. However, the Agency said the success of the programme will depend on the public’s cooperation.
