Begüm Doğulu addresses misconceptions about the mooring buoy project in Göcek and Dalaman, clarifying the court's decision on the EIA.
The President of the Yacht Tourism Association, Begüm Doğulu, clarified the misinformation circulating in the public regarding the mooring buoy (anchor) systems project planned to be implemented in the bays of Göcek and Dalaman. Doğulu stated that the decision of the Muğla 2nd Administrative Court to suspend the execution was misinterpreted, emphasizing that the court did not halt the mooring application but only suspended the execution of the 'Environmental Impact Assessment Not Required' decision given for the project.
www.denizhaber.com spoke with Begüm Doğulu about the developments:
– There have been reports in the public stating that 'the mooring project has been canceled.' What exactly does the court's decision encompass?
Begüm Doğulu: Firstly, we see that there is a significant misunderstanding regarding this issue. The decision of the Muğla 2nd Administrative Court is not a decision that halts the implementation of the mooring system. The court has suspended the execution of the 'Environmental Impact Assessment Not Required' decision given for the project. In other words, the court has determined that the environmental impacts of this project need to be comprehensively assessed and that it cannot be exempt from the Environmental Impact Assessment process.
– Does this decision mean that the mooring system has been completely canceled?
Begüm Doğulu: No, it absolutely does not mean that. Legally, the mooring system has not been prohibited. The point raised by the court is that the project must be subjected to the Environmental Impact Assessment process. After the EIA process is completed, the project can be re-evaluated within the framework of the relevant legislation. Therefore, interpretations such as 'the mooring project has been completely canceled' or 'it can no longer be implemented' are not legally accurate.
– How will the process proceed from here?
Begüm Doğulu: In the next phase, the relevant institutions need to carry out the EIA process and complete the necessary environmental assessments. This is the essence of the court's decision. It is possible for the process to continue by fulfilling the legal and administrative requirements.
– What is your approach to the issue as the Yacht Tourism Association?
Begüm Doğulu: Our priority is to ensure that the protection of the environment and the sustainable development of marine tourism are achieved together. We believe that projects based on scientific data, which take into account the views of all stakeholders and have completed the legal processes thoroughly, will make significant contributions to both the marine ecosystem and safe marine use.
– What final message would you like to convey to the public?
Begüm Doğulu: It is crucial to correctly understand the scope of legal decisions. The court's decision is not one that prohibits the mooring system; it merely indicates that the EIA process needs to be conducted. We value the accurate information of the public and will continue to closely monitor the subsequent stages of the process.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
