Virgilio Umanzor
Recognized that the proposed forestry legislation could be reformed

Virgilio Umanzor, a Liberal Congressman and Vice-President of the National Congress, left it clearly understood that what is now included in the proposed Forestry Law of Protected Areas and Wildlife is not the last word.

"Yes, there are some aspects that were modified within the legislation but they will amply discussed by Congress," affirmed Umanzor, who also presides over the Common Commission of Forestry Issues.

He also clarified that the Commission is open to any suggestion that could assist the discussion of the law.

The Congressman explained that the proposed legislation has the backing of sectors involved in forestry issues and was drafted from the suggestions and with the consensus of these groups.

In response to the opposition of many to the proposed legislation, who believe it signal legal permission for the destruction of the forest, Umanzor explains, "I do not believe that the proposal, neither as a project nor as a law, implies the end of Honduran forests."

In this sense he asserts that they are legislating the integral conservation of the people's rights in the interior and on the edges of the forest through the community forest management contracts.

This type of contract will be awarded according to the proposal directly to the communities or organizations that inhabit the forests or bordering areas, he explained.

Umanzor also referred to the management contract for private companies, with short term plans up to seven years and long term plans lasting longer than seven years.

He noted that these last provisions were written according to transparency laws, with the assistance of a management plan and with supervision that guarantees the sustainable use of forestry resources.

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