South Africa: Select Committee Engages With Stakeholders on Marine Oil Pollution Bill
The specific committees of public infrastructure and ministers in the presidency heard a common oral submission of stakeholders regarding the marine oil pollution (preparation, response and cooperation) bill (B10-2022).
The bill is intended to be included in the provisions of the International Convention on Oil Pollution, Response and Cooperation (OPRC). As a party to the OPRC Convention, South Africa must take measures to prepare and respond to potential oil spills in the country’s maritime sector.
Committee Chairman Mr Rikus Badenhorst said combating marine oil pollution is not only an environmental issue, but also an economic, social and legal priority. Destruction of marine habitats, environmental violations and major threats to livelihoods, especially those who rely on the marine economy, requires decisive legislative action.
“As outlined in the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparation, Response and Cooperation (OPRC), South Africa is one side of pollution,” Mr Badenhorst said.
The Committee believes that the speeches and presentations received reaffirm the urgency of strengthening the legislative framework for prevention and response to the legislative framework in South Africa.
The Center for Biodiversity Law, Sankob (South Africa Conservation Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds), South African Birds, Green Connections and Natural Justice, etc. shared key insights. Stakeholders raised issues surrounding delays coordinated between agency and government officials in the oil spill, which allowed pollution to continue to weaken. They also highlight the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge and ensuring transparent and accessible compensation mechanisms to affected communities.
Committee members raised the importance of incorporating traditional therapists in discussions on issues raised by stakeholders. The committee said traditional therapists have close ties to the ocean and that custodians of cultural heritage and environmental management cannot be ignored. Participation in these communities is essential for overall effective marine resource management. The bill is currently in public participation.
The Ministry of Transport provided a detailed response to the submissions submitted by stakeholders, highlighting existing mechanisms and measures to address marine pollution, including backup tugboat vessels patrolling the coastline and members of the country’s international treaties, such as the OPRC.
Mr Badenhorst said that as the committee continues its supervisory role, members will remain vigilant to monitor the implementation of the bill. “We are committed to ensuring that the necessary regulations are enacted without delay and that we adhere to our collective responsibility to protect marine resources,” he said.
“The ongoing work to sort out the bill must ensure that it is practical, enforceable and well-resourced to achieve its objectives effectively. We highlight the importance of empowering relevant authorities, including the South African Maritime Security Agency, and attracting coastal communities and small-scale fishermen to participate. decision-making and response work,” Mr. Badenhorst added.
Distributed by Apo Group on behalf of the Republic of South Africa: Parliament.
