Fish farmer sheds light on joint project with PNP to restock Rio Cobre with fingerlings
KINGSTON, Jamaica – The fish farmer, Donnie Bunting, who is integral in the efforts by Leader of the Opposition Mark Golding to see to the restocking of the Rio Cobre following the devastating fish kill last year, is shedding further light on the timeline of his involvement.
Bunting outlined that his involvement began with a request from Golding seeking his expertise and assistance in replenishing the river’s fish population.
READ: PNP restocks Rio Cobre with fingerlings following 2022 fish kill
Following Golding’s request at the end of July 2022, Bunting initiated the process of accumulating the necessary fish to fulfil the restocking endeavour.
“Concurrently, Golding and his representatives engaged in discussions with the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) and Fisheries for guidance and necessary approvals,” the People’s National Party (PNP) said in a statement on Sunday.
“Despite facing roadblocks and challenges imposed by the authorities, Bunting persevered, engaging in months of discussions with various government officials and representatives from Rusal. These efforts culminated in the approval received just last week, allowing for the transportation of fingerlings to designated sites determined by government representatives for their subsequent release into the river,” the PNP added.
According to the PNP, Bunting “meticulously fulfilled his commitment” by arranging for the delivery of the first batch of 3,000 fingerlings, out of the 30,000 promised to Golding, to the approved sites.
These fingerlings were transported in specially designed oxygenated bags to ensure their safety and survival during the restocking process.
The PNP’s junior spokesperson on Land and Environment, Lenroy James, was present uring the restocking exercise, actively participating in the initiative.
This collaboration highlights the commitment of the People’s National Party to environmental preservation and the sustainable management of Jamaica’s precious natural resources.
“The PNP extends its sincere gratitude to Donnie Bunting for his invaluable contribution to the restoration of the Rio Cobre. His dedication and determination serve as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the importance of safeguarding our environment for future generations,” the PNP said.
Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Matthew Samuda, led an investigation into the alleged chemical spill in the Rio Cobre where a series of assessments were done.
Samuda had described the damage from the spill as “significant”, and said that bauxite company Windalco could be made to forfeit a $115 million environmental performance bond if it is determined that it is responsible for the spill.
