Minister Tabuya responds to access concerns on Vuda EIA report

Minister for Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya has acknowledged public concerns over access to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the proposed Waste-to-Energy Facility and private port at Vuda Point.

Ms Tabuya said she took responsibility for ensuring processes were transparent, accessible and responsive.

She said access during standard government hours had been a challenge for many people.

In response, the Department of Environment has extended viewing access by making the report available at First Landing Beach Resort and Villas, with access now open daily until 11pm.

Additional access remains available at the department’s offices in Suva, Lautoka and the Ba Provincial Office during normal working hours.

The 21-day public review period, from March 23 to April 22, 2026, is the first step in the EIA process.

Ms Tabuya urged Fijians, particularly those living near the proposed development, to review the report and provide written submissions.

She clarified that the Environment Management (EIA Process) Regulations 2007 set the current requirements for physical access to EIA reports, including the 21-day review period and a fee of $5 per page.

“These are legal provisions that the Department is required to follow,” she said.

Ms Tabuya said access to information was a constitutional right and the ministry had proposed amendments to improve public access, including more modern and practical ways to obtain EIA reports.

The proposed changes are under review by the Solicitor-General’s Office.

“Transparency and public participation are at the heart of environmental decision making,” she said.

Ms Tabuya said this was the first stage of consultation, with a second round of public consultations to follow to allow communities a stronger voice.

She said the ministry remained committed to a fair, transparent and lawful process and encouraged stakeholders to participate constructively.