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CRM to decide on complaints against MGM-Diorva
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Posted on Oct 20 1999
A three-man appeals committee of the Coastal Resources Management will convene today to decide on the complaint filed by a resident questioning the operation of MGM/Diorva in the Dandan area because of its alleged negative impact on the environment.
More than a year ago, Joseph T. Torres filed a complaint against MGM/Diorva claiming that the garment factory failed to notify nearby residents that it will be operating in the Dandan area.
In his earlier petition, Torres expressed concern on the impact of the garment firm’s sewer system on the community and the environment.
However, the Micronesian Environmental Services, which conducted the environmental impact assessment of the garment manufacturer, has assured Torres that although the facility is connected to CUC power, on-site generators will provide most of the required power. Toilet facilities are connected to CUC sewer line and industrial water demand is met by on-site well and rainwater catchment.
CRM issued the permit to the garment factory to operate and dismissed the petition filed by Torres. But Torres questioned CRM’s decision and later brought the case to the Appeals Committee.
It took more than a year for the Appeals Committee to hear the case because of the change in administration that led to the appointment of new members representing each of the islands of Saipan, Tinian and Rota.
The original MGM Garment Manufacturing facility opened in 1989 and was in operation for four years. In 1995, the business was reorganized and the facility was expanded to accommodate new investors. The business operation began in June 1996.
