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Otar Shamugia: "Work is currently underway in Racha to expand the protected areas, in which the involvement of local self-government and community is of utmost importance.
According to the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Otar Shamugia, the National Environmental Agency made an appropriate decision to cancel the license for organizing hunting farms in Racha following the legal process.
The Minister also noted that work is currently underway in Racha to expand the protected areas, in which the involvement of local self-government and community will be important.
The Minister urged protesters to join the mentioned process and work with the Protected Areas Agency to ensure that the decision serves the interests of the local community and, of course, the protection of the unique biodiversity of the region.
"The National Environment Agency declared the license invalid, which was preceded by a series of legal processes that started in May, while the decision was also preceded by an oral hearing, with the involvement of all parties: local government, forestry service, Agency of Protected Areas, and representatives of the licensee. All participants provided information on the fulfillment of existing obligations. More than a year and eight months have passed since the said license was issued, and no significant activity has been carried out by the licensee.
The country provides an environment for making investments, and the Government supports it as much as possible, however, when we see non-fulfillment of obligations, we cannot wait for the process for years and take the appropriate decision”, Minister Shamugia said.