A referendum on tourism development was held in the Pitcairn Islands in March 2001.[2] The proposals put forward by Wellesley Pacific were approved by 78% of voters.
Background
editA referendum was held in 1981 on the subject of building an airfield for the island. Although it was approved by 90% of voters, construction had proved too expensive.
Wellesley Pacific proposed the construction of a 30-bed hotel and an international airport on Oeno Island, with regular flights to Tahiti and New Zealand. A second airport would be built on Pitcairn island with two lodges, whilst Bounty Bay would be modified to allow boats to land. A processing plant would also be built to allow the development of a fishing industry. The company demanded exclusive rights to develop the islands, but said it would give 10% of profits to island residents. However, environmentalists raised concerns about the potential effects on the islands' unique plant and animal life.[2]
Results
edit| Choice | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| For | 22 | 78.57 |
| Against | 6 | 21.43 |
| Total | 28 | 100 |
| Source: The Observer | ||
References
edit- ^ "Minutes of the Regular council Meeting held at the Pulau school" (PDF). PITCAIRN ISLAND COUNCIL. 24 April 2024. Retrieved 5 Sep 2024.
- ^ a b Ahoy there! Mutiny island grabs tourist bounty lifeline The Observer, 25 March 2001