GEORGE MUNICIPAL FMC NOTICE 4 –  Access to Gwaing River Mouth

George Municipality is aware of inaccurate statements circulating regarding public access to the Gwaing River Mouth. The area being referred to is a natural system, and altering its composition—such as by removing rocks—can destabilize the shoreline and lead to erosion. According to Section 13(1) of the Integrated Coastal Management Act (ICMA), every person in the Republic is entitled to use and enjoy coastal property, provided their use does not adversely affect the rights of other members of the public to enjoy coastal property, does not hinder the State in fulfilling its duty to protect the environment, and does not cause adverse environmental effects.

In line with these requirements, the municipality cannot implement any man-made access interventions at the Gwaing River Mouth that may trigger activities resulting in environmental harm or instability. Section 20(1) of the ICMA outlines the responsibilities of municipalities in managing coastal access land. This section mandates that municipalities, within whose jurisdiction coastal access land falls, must ensure that the provision and use of such land and its associated infrastructure do not result in any adverse environmental effects.

The Gwaing River Mouth and Beach has been awarded the Green Coast Award for the second year in a row, which recognizes the area’s exceptional environmental quality and conservation efforts. The municipality remains committed to preserving this pristine natural environment for future generations while balancing public access needs. We thank the public for their cooperation in maintaining the ecological integrity of this sensitive area.