A packed Speaker’s Debate in Nuku’alofa spotlighted fierce public concern over Tonga’s future in seabed mining.
Nearly 100 people gathered at the Legislative Assembly Thursday night to attend the year’s first Speaker’s Debate, focused on the hotly contested issue of seabed mining.
The debate, titled “Seabed Mining: The Good and the Bad,” brought together government officials, civil society, academics, youth, and international observers, including Australian High Commissioner to Tonga, H.E. Brek Batley.
A panel of experts presented diverse views on the issue, examining seabed mining from legal, environmental, industrial, and policy angles. Speakers included Victor Vescovo, investor in metal recycling; Lori Osmundsen, international environmental lawyer; and Rose Lesley Kautoke, Tongan maritime law specialist.
CEO of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Taniela Kula, and Muimui Napa’a Lilo of Tonga Offshore Mining Ltd. (TMOL) also contributed insights. TMOL, a subsidiary of The Metals Company, has been exploring the Clarion-Clipperton Zone since 2011.
Two MPs led the formal debate: Hon. Viliami Uasike Latu argued for seabed mining as a path to economic growth, while Hon. Johnny Grattan Vaea Taione warned of irreversible harm to marine ecosystems and called for a cautious approach.
Public sentiment leaned heavily against seabed mining, particularly among youth attendees. An informal vote showed 56 opposed, 8 in favour, and several abstentions.
Speaker of the House, Lord Fakafanua, said the debate was vital for “national dialogue on our shared future.”
Further consultations and public forums are expected in the near future.
