Issued by: Ministry of Environmental Affairs & Tourism
OUDEKRAAL DEVELOPMENT
"I would counsel great caution on the part of everyone concerned. If the developers move in a hasty fashion they might take steps that are irretractable," Minister Z Pallo Jordan.
In an interview with Carte Blanche on 19 September 1996, the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Dr Z Pallo Jordan, voiced his concerns over the development plans for the Oudekraal site on Table Mountain. Minister Jordan is presently investigating the situation in an attempt to address the concerns that have been raised by the public and various organisations.
Minister Jordan said that the entire Table Mountain Range is of global environmental significance because of its biodiversity. The impact of the planned development on the mountain's sensitive ecosystem needs to be thoroughly investigated and a Strategic Environmental Impact Assessment should be conducted. This would assess the impact of the development project on the ecosystem of the entire mountain range as well as on affected communities and the economy of the peninsula.
The Minister commented on his view towards ecotourism development:
"I am committed to sustainable ecotourism development and to attract tourists we need to have attractions. Table Mountain is one of the top four tourist destinations in Africa. If we destroy our natural assets for short term benefits we will be cutting off our nose to spite our face."
The important historical, cultural and religious significance of the Oudekraal site also needs to be acknowledged. Minister Jordan feels that the shrines found in the area may well be Natural Heritage Sites and as such would have to be under the jurisdiction of the National Monuments Council.
Commenting on the fact that the development of the site was approved in 1957, Minister Jordan found it strange that these rights, granted 40 years ago, are being used now. He feels that the developers need to be accountable on their plans.
STATEMENT ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS & TOURISM
For further information please contact: Cassandra Gabriel Public Relations Officer Ministry of Environmental Affairs & Tourism
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