Lawmakers demand decisive action following decree against “environmental terrorism”
The recent Decree 615-26, issued by President Luis Abinader to combat so-called “environmental terrorism,” has received the backing of the Legislative Branch. However, congressmen from various benches have emphasized that the effectiveness of this measure will depend strictly on its practical application and tangible results in the preservation of the country’s natural resources.
Voices calling for rigor and vigilance
Senator Antonio Marte welcomed the presidential initiative, but warned about the need to move from words to actions. Marte was emphatic in pointing out that, at times, internal interests within state institutions could be hindering environmental protection.
I want to congratulate the president for that decree. I hope its implementation is real, truly real, that it doesn’t just stop at being a decree. Many officials go there, they are the ones who order those devilries to be done to make money.
Antonio Marte, Senator
The legislator also questioned the lack of control in timber transport permits, suggesting that current authorizations are vulnerable to being illicitly reused.
Skepticism about political will
For her part, Deputy Llaniris Espinal expressed caution regarding the new provision. The congresswoman recalled that in the Dominican Republic there are already robust regulations for the protection of watersheds and protected areas, but that the historical challenge has been their enforcement.
- Lack of political will to enforce existing laws.
- Need to declare areas such as the Central and Septentrional Mountain Ranges free from metallic mining.
- Concern that the decree is merely a tool for media impact.
Optimism and new technological tools
From the Environment Commission of the Chamber of Deputies, its president, Juan Medina, expressed an optimistic view. Medina highlighted that the Government has begun to implement technological tools, such as the use of 40 drones for aerial surveillance of national parks, which will facilitate a rapid response to any ecological threat.
The Vice Minister of Climate Change and Sustainability, Ana Emilia Pimentel, reaffirmed that under the administration of Paíno Henríquez, a “zero tolerance” policy is maintained. According to the official, the new decree is a key piece to articulate all the State’s security, defense, and intelligence forces in a joint and coordinated effort to protect the Dominican natural heritage.
