DIRECTION ISSUED BY THE MINISTER OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT TO ADDRESS, PREVENT AND COMBAT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 RELATING TO THE BIODIVERSITY SECTOR

DIRECTION ISSUED BY THE MINISTER OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT TO ADDRESS, PREVENT AND COMBAT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 RELATING TO THE BIODIVERSITY SECTOR

Notice Title: Directions regarding measures to address, prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19 relating to the biodiversity sector
Government Gazette Notice: GN 537 in GG 43323 of 14 May 2020
Commencing date: 14 May 2020

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment issued Directions, in terms of regulation 4(10) of the Regulations issued in terms of section 27(2) of the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002 (“the Regulations”).

These Directions aim to provide directions in respect of the carrying out of activities by the biodiversity sector in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004, the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act 57 of 2003 and any applicably provincial conservation legislation in respect of activities and services that have been declared essential or are permitted during Alert Level 4.

These Directions apply to:

  • Issuing authorities who are responsible for the processes listed in paragraphs 4, 5 and 6 of the Directions; and
  • All applicants and holders of permits, registrations, and certificates related to the matters dealt with in paragraphs 4, 5 and 6 of the Directions.

Where any issuing authority affected by these Directions has publicly indicated that a different arrangement applies, in respect of paragraphs 4, 5 and 6, such an arrangement will prevail over any arrangement indicated in these Directions.

These Directions provide, inter alia, for the following:

  • Extension of timeframes;
  • Applications for and issuing of permits, licences, registrations and certificates; and
  • Restrictions in respect of the carrying out of activities.

These Directions became effective on 14 May 2020 and will apply for the period of Alert Level 4. For a copy of the Government Notice click here.

For more information or assistance please contact Minnette Le Roux at minnette@shangoni.co.za

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