By Colmore S. Christian, PhD
May 18, 2010 – As a Dominican national who invested over 25 years in the management, protection and development of Dominica’s natural resources I cannot help but to share some comments on the front-page article which appeared in the May 10, 2010 (Vol. 12, Number 24) issue of The Sun newspaper.
According to the article the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry directed the Forestry and Wildlife Division (FWD) to issue an importation permit to the Eggleston-based company called Ruffled Feathers Aviary (RFA) for the importation of ten macaws into Dominica. The following comments are framed within the context of the existing legislation and the potential implications of the Minister’s decision.
Existing Legislation:
Under the Forestry and Wildlife Act, Chapter 60:02 of the Revised Laws of Dominica the Forestry and Wildlife Division is the state agency responsible for the management of wildlife resources on the island. With respect to the particular issue under consideration Section 25 of the Act states:
No alien wildlife shall be imported into or introduced, possessed, transported, or released into the country, except by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife, or under a permit issued to an individual by the Minister upon the recommendation of the Director and Permanent Secretary. Any person who contravenes any portion of this section is liable on summary conviction to a fine of seven hundred and fifty dollars or to imprisonment for six months.
Based on my information the FWD argued against the issuance of an importation permit. I do not know what the Permanent Secretary’s recommendation was. However, based on the spirit of the law the favourable recommendations of both the Director and the Permanent Secretary are required before the Minister can issue an importation permit to an individual. Thus, the approach adopted in the case of the RFA application seems flawed in the following respects:
A. The favourable recommendations of both the Director and the Permanent Secretary were not secured by the Minister prior to the issuance of the importation permit to RFA;
B. The authority for issuance of the importation permit rests with the Minister and not the Forestry and Wildlife Division. Thus, one can conclude that any permit issued by the Forestry and Wildlife Division has no legal basis.
Dominica’s approach in this matter may also have implications at the international level. Dominica has ratified the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and consequently Dominica is expected to adhere to the provisions of the Convention. Research indicated that the necessary certificate/permit was not secured from the Environmental Coordinating Unit (ECU), the national CITES authority, prior to the importation of the said birds which are on the CITES schedule of threatened species. This non-compliance with CITES guidelines may have ‘legal’ implications for Dominica at the international level.
Other Implications:
Dominica is home to the Morne Trois Piton National Park – a World Heritage Site (Natural areas category), approximately 175 species of birds including two endemic parrot species and several migrants, several waterfalls, two freshwater crater lakes, a boiling lake, etc. Our natural resources (plants, animals, landscapes, natural phenomena, etc) constitute the foundation of our nature tourism thrust. Given the social and economic importance of tourism to the island one would assume that public policy will be supportive of the sustainable use and viability of the island’s natural assets. Surely, the decision to grant an importation permit to RFA and the terms of the permit are NOT consistent with the principles of sustainable development especially in the context of a small island nation. The rate of loss of species in island settings is estimated to be 1,000 times or higher than in mainland settings under normal conditions. The introduction of alien species has the potential of increasing that rate.
At the invitation of the Caribbean Tourism Organization I made a presentation to delegates at the Sustainable Tourism Conference (STC-11) which was held on Barbados, May 10-13, 2010. My May 11 presentation was on the topic ‘Protecting our Biodiversity – Science versus Art’. Among other things I identified the factors which contribute to loss of biodiversity in the Caribbean and the world. There are numerous examples of negative, unanticipated impacts of introduced species throughout the world. Research has shown that species introductions are the leading causes of extinctions. Since 1600 for example, introduced species have been responsible for the loss of 39% species according to the World Conservation Monitoring Centre, 1992.
Representative of the Turks and Caicos Islands in his presentation at SCT-11 informed delegates that his country was fighting a ‘battle’ against the Lion Fish, an introduced species which was now a serious threat to marine life. The Turks and Caicos authorities have embarked on an active and costly Lion Fish eradication campaign. Dominica should learn from this experience.
One of the conditions under which the importation permit was granted to RFA is:
Where any bird has escaped from the security of the aviary, Ruffled Feathers Aviary shall report the same to the Forestry Division without delay.
The related issues of the responsibility for seeking to trap and/or destroy any escaped birds as well as any liability claims by the state have not been addressed in the permit. Many of us are aware of the major oil spill in southern USA which has dominated the news for a few weeks now. The US Government has made it abundantly clear that the private sector company (British Petroleum) responsible will be held totally liable for all associated (both direct and indirect) costs. Should the importation permit granted to RFA have similarly addressed liability costs?
Another area of much concern is the number of birds imported. The fact that five pairs (5 males and 5 females) of birds were imported suggests that RFA may be contemplating breeding of the birds. The terms of the import permit do not speak to the issue of captive breeding of the birds nor does the permit address the disposal of any offspring of the alien species. These are two critical issues which should be addressed.
A protocol governing the use of items of equipment utilized within the RFA aviary and possible use outside of the aviary was apparently overlooked in the terms and conditions of the permit. Similarly, guidelines for disposal of waste (fecal and other waste) from the aviary should have been addressed. Careless use of items of equipment outside of aviary as well as careless disposal of aviary waste could pose a threat to native avian species.
Conclusion:
The decision by the Minister, to my mind, was not in accordance with the provisions of Section 25 of Chapter 60:02 of the laws of Dominica. Furthermore, the perception is that the Minister seems to have accommodated the wishes and desires of a few individuals over the long-term national interest.
It is my sincere hope that some of the legal practitioners and conservation oriented non-governmental organizations such as Dominica Conservation Association, Dominica Hotel and Tourism Organization (DHTA), and Waitukubuli Ecological Foundation (WEF) will consider partnering with other interested parties to seek to persuade the Minister to revisit his decision. The future of aspects of Dominica’s natural heritage could be jeopardized by the Minister’s decisions. This is one issue which should bring all civic minded and patriotic Dominicans together. We all have a responsibility to protect and conserve the natural heritage of our Nature Island. The Minister’s decision and the current terms and conditions of the permit granted to RFA are not in the best interests of “Dominica’s Organic Island concept” and the island’s stated approach to ‘sustainable development’.
I have no doubt that former conservation pioneers and employees of FWD such as the late Christopher Maximea, Stanford Mathew, Erdley James, David James, Hilton Joseph, Haines Emmanuel, and Anthony Sorhaindo as well as retirees such as Cuthbert Julien, Quammie Greenaway, Burleigh Williams, Adolphus Christian, Phillip Matthew, Michael Zamore and Sylvester Joseph, who made personal sacrifices and worked very hard to ensure the protection and conservation of Dominica’s rich biodiversity during their careers would have been or are concerned about the importation of such a large number of exotic birds into Dominica.
It must be emphasized that Dominica does not have either the technical capacity or the financial resources necessary to cope with and effectively manage any outbreak of exotic pests and diseases. Our recent experiences with our Mountain Chicken species and citrus plantations support this view. The continued importation of exotic species (birds, mammals, plants, aquarium fishes, etc) will inevitably lead to the introduction of new pests and diseases to our shores. Dominica should therefore stop the importation of ALL exotic species in order to minimize development of such possibilities.
Additional information about the Author:
* Currently serves as an:
Assistant Professor, Forestry Ecology and Wildlife Program, Alabama A&M University, Normal, Alabama, USA
* Served bas Dominica’s first Superintendent of National Parks (1985-1995) and was instrumental in the development of our national park system.
* Served as Director – Forestry and Wildlife Division (1996-1998);
* Co-author of the nomination dossier for World Heritage Site status for Morne Trios Pitons Nation Park;
* Served as Permanent Secretary in various ministries (Agriculture and the Environment; Tourism and Ports; Lands, Telecommunications, and Ports: Tourism and Private Sector Relations) (1999-2007);
* Has published several articles in peer-reviewed journals such as Human Biology, Biological Conservation, Conservation Biology, Journal of Biogeography and Caribbean Studies Journal.
Please permit me to comment on the posting by the distinguished Doctor. The article is very accurate in relation to the matter at hand. To often times personal interest takes precedence over the National interest.If the persons who are charged with the management of our natural resources are so callus in their approach who can we bring the ordinary citizen in line. Their have been instances in Dominica where pets were released whether accidentally or deliberately and have found themselves in Community forest.
The decision to allow the birds to come in is a hard slap in the face of the Forestry Wildlife and Parks Division and all the brave soldiers who have departed. The Forestry officers should now know that all the hard work can be set aside by the stroke of the pen.Guys I will not be surprise if you are demoralized because of this experience.
The comments by ONLY tells me that environmental consciousness is lacking in the individual.
Currently Chitrid Fungus is decimating our Frog population and no one not even the vets can say where it came from. The same approach that was taken for the importation of the birds should be taken for agricultural products. I mean persons should be allowed to bring in the items that are usually confiscated at the Customs.
The Forestry Wildlife and Parks Division made a serious error by not including penalties as part of the conditions in case of accidental or deliberate release of the Birds from the said Facility. Additionally the Division should have another amnesty for exotic birds and enforce Section 25 of the Forestry and Wildlife Act after the Deadline. Forestry cat and we will support you all the way.
Hypocrasy at work, what can I say.
All you have to do is have the proper examinations, treatments and certifications to prevent problems and insure the safety of plants and animals.
As for the birds, all you have to do is quarantine them for 6 months and treat them with antibiotics as a precaution. Much ado about nothing. They are for pets, not to be released into the wild.
It is much easier just to ban everything and go live in a hole or just collect your paycheck.
Ignorance is contagious.
People need to understand what this whole global environmental movement is about………..it is about protecting everything in the environment and getting rid of people. That means you and me.
The eugenicists view people as the vermin of the earth. Wake up.
These are not rational people you are dealing with. They mask everything with their “do good and environmental concern” propaganda.
Your posting seems to ignore the fact that the proper procedures and channels were not implemented in the decision to import these foreign birds. Did the minister do a case study to see what potential impact they might have on the Eco System?
You claim that they are for pets, but don’t pets escape all the time and go on to build colonies in the wild? Do you know what havoc the presence of the burmese python is having on the eco system of the Florida everglades?
You seem very upset that Dominicans are showing concern for the eco system of their own homeland, I wonder why?
I support fully the author of this article.
If Athie or Wiltshire or any other conscious, right -thinking Dominican were to share their views on that matter, you would hear how much character assassination that would be leveled at those persons. That’s the most environmentally unfriendly GOVT and group of politicians Dominica has ever witnessed. Just recently asphalt plant building in village of Layou and close to one of our most beautiful rivers. Dredging sand without license by foreigner or beginning to mine stones without license in Coulibistrie by same person, support for Japan re. whaling when Dominica’s interest is Whale watching. Where is our sovereignty, our love for this beautiful country? Where has that love gone? Are we selling our country for a few dollars more? is Dominica for sale? Yet when those kinds of things happen we turn a blind eye. Sissy Caudeiron decades ago warned us Dominicans in song,’Pas kite yo pwen DOMNIK hord nou’ English translation, ‘ Do not let them take Dominica from us.’ Dominica seem to be for sale
Wait to see how many Dominicans will comment on that brilliant article. To many Dr. Colmore Christian should shut his mouth because he should not make those factual statements. But if one takes time to read and understand the article, Dr. Christian feels badly hurt, even betrayed. Surely many other persons have the same feelings, but will say nothing. That is the way our Nature Isle has become. Respect for institutions and listening to good advice have been thrown out of the window. Officials are becoming more and more frustrated by the irresponsible actions of some politicians who bla bla about protecting our environment – our forest reserves, our natural resources , our Wildlife, yet do those sorts of things that could negatively impact our environment.against. Dominicans are awaiting an explanation on that serious issue.
Protect the Sisserou Parrot. The Forestry and Wildlife Division, Ministry of Agriculture, Minister, Environment Coordinating Unit (ECU), all Dominicans, DNO, do all you can to protect our ENVIRONMENT. More education on protection and preservation of our ENVIRONMENT needed for officials, policy makers, media and the population at large.
Concerning Macau birds though, If the Minister, according to reports which have not been refuted, did something against the wishes or advice of the Forestry Division re. importation of ten Macau birds into Dominica, please PS and Forestry Officials, can’t you all correct that mistake before it is too late? Experts versed in matters of Forestry and Wildlife, indicated that there could be serious negative effects because persons involved did not do the right thing, did not go through the correct procedures to bring the Birds into Dominica. We may well be elated today for the new Sisserou offspring, but later bow our heads in shame for not doing enough to protect our National Heritage.. But who will listen or read seriously Dr. Colymore’s article. Who is going to act according to that article to reverse that unfortunate, authoritative move? The PS Agriculture, or the Minister, or Officials of Forestry and Wildlife? For all you know to many Dr. Colmore Christian doesn’t exist. He should not say anything. He should keep his mouth shut. But it hurts. Because when people invest all those years and time in protecting Dominica’s Forest reserves and Environment, they feel compelled to forewarn the people when things are going out of hand. if the Minister is wrong will his action be reversed. Dominicans waiting to see and hear.
I honestly share your concern and hope that something is done with regard to the issues mentioned above. I just hope that the worse case scenario of these birds being introduced to the environment be it by fault or mistake does not happen.
This is the future of one of our main assets being put at risk ” Our Eco System” and this should be taken very seriously.
Our ministers have too much “discretionary” power, enabling them to disregard establshed institutions and expert advice and one wonders sometimes why we bother to put such safeguards in place, at no little expense, only to be ignored by parliamentarians intend on exercising their “influence”. The demoralising effect such unilateral actions may have on the people working in these institutions can only be surmised. A Freedom of Information Act is needed more than ever if democratic people power is not to be usurped by a few.
there is are mentality in Dominica that ‘laws of Dominica are not to be followed’
So true this article thanks for the awareness and info, just wish the topic could reach the eyes and ears of our people and concern people that work in the offices that holds the responsibility of our forestry and wild life.shame on us to see the amount of attention we pay to car accident court cases allegations against politician , and little bout tings dat could have a serious effects on our future.I SUPPORT THE A BARN ON THE IMPORT OF THESE BIRDS , OR WE WILL HAVE ANOTHER SHOW TO LOOK AT, LIKE THE LIZARDS I SEE SEEING NOW THAT I NEVER SEEN BEFORE THATS JUST FIGHTING AND EATING OUR OWN , ARE THESE PEOPLE DECISIONS IN THE INTERESTED IN OUR NATURE ISLE WHEN MAKING THEIR POCKET OF PEOPLE THEY WANNA HELP.