Public Consultation Set on Proposed Macaw Sanctuary

Residents of Red Bank Village are demanding answers and transparency over government plans to establish a scarlet macaw sanctuary in the area. They say farmers were never properly consulted despite concerns around using the land.

The issue gained attention after a News 5 interview with Minister of Sustainable Development Orlando Habet disclosed that discussions were already underway with the village council and tour operators.

However, residents say little information from such meetings reached the wider community. Village Chairperson Ricardo Cho said the consultation was always planned. “This has always been the plan, that the consultation is going to happen,” Cho said.

Cho added that reports of illegal logging have driven the push for a protected area. “Our people do their farming, their traditional living. We have told that to them and they understand,” he said.

On Thursday, Area Representative Rodwell Ferguson for Stann Creek West said in an online statement that he believes “consultation with the people is the first step.” He then added that a public consultation would be taking place on January 13th at the Red Bank Community Center.

In an interview, Ferguson told News 5, “When you reserve a portion of land, then there must be a proper consultation with the people… I think we did it the reverse. Have a meeting with the people, and then they will determine if they want to reserve the land for the Scarlet Macaws.”

Habet also confirmed that discussions have considered charging fees for visitors. Ferguson said the sanctuary could benefit tourism in Red Bank but that residents’ input must come first.