Enquiries: Mike Eaton, tel. 083 636 0900 -
Date: 27 May 2005
Embargo: None
OFF-ROAD COMMUNITY ON TRACK TO A COMMON DESTINATION
In April the Minister of Environmental Affairs & Tourism, the hon.
Marthinus Van Schalkwyk, voiced concern over the growing impact that
off-road activities were having on the ecology, and called upon the
off-road community to develop ways to regulate themselves, before he
was forced to take unilateral action.
In response, and working to the 6-month timeframe set by the Minister,
representatives from various sections of the off-road industry and
community, recently constituted the National Offroad Workshop (NOW),
the aim of which is to produce a White Paper that will be delivered to
the Minister.
“There is no doubt that selfish destruction of our natural resources
through over-utilisation and ignorance is creating circumstances
throughout Africa, and the world, that will prevent our children from
enjoying the same benefits in future as we did in the past. The Call by
Minister Martinus van Schalkwyk is well-founded, and there is still
time to stop further thoughtless devastation of our beautiful country
through education, and well-considered and resolute action”. Said Mr.
Jan Joubert, well-respected off-road author, safari operator,
conservationist, and the convenor of NOW.
In an unprecedented display of unanimity, and accepting the need to
preserve and ensure the sustainability of Africa's treasure trove of
resources for future generations, representatives of off-road interest
groups have agreed upon this common goal. From its own unique
perspective, each group will now be able to help in achieving that goal
by presenting its contribution to the White Paper at the workshop to be
held in George on 18, 19 & 20 October.
We will also be looking beyond the immediate focus of the Minister’s
ultimatum, the 4x4 vehicles and trails, and rather approach the problem
holistically, recognising the role of education, training, the
indigenous population, law-enforcement agencies and the tourism
industry” said Joubert.
Interested parties are urged to contact Mr. Joubert now at 021 8500010
