Ecobreves – HONDURAS: Unstoppable Deforestation

By IPS Correspondents and - - Reprint | | Print |

TEGUCIGALPA, Oct 11 2004 (IPS) - The intervention commission designated to halt illegal logging and precious lumber smuggling in Olancho, in northeast Honduras, has not achieved its objectives. Guillermo Rodas, member of the commission, told Tierramérica that contraband continues due to lack of personnel and logistics.

Illegal logging, especially for illegal trade in precious woods, is decimating the Olancho forests and watersheds, says Roman Catholic priest Andrés Tamayo, leader of an environmental movement in the department and a member of the commission.

After the National March for Life, led by Tamayo in June, the government set up the commission with the aim of presenting within one month viable alternatives to prevent deforestation in Olancho and other forested areas.

The group has recommended firing more than 85 percent of the employees of the Honduran national forestry agency for incompetence.