Salam: I Will Take Appropriate Action if Solutions to Trash File Fail

Prime Minister Tammam Salam stressed on Thursday that the trash management crisis is being obstructed by political disputes and that he will take the necessary action if a change is not made.

“Tackling the trash crisis is being hindered by political tensions. I will take the appropriate action if a radical change is not made,” said the PM to a delegation of students from the Saint Joseph University.

On the obstacles hindering the cabinet's work and whether he has a time limit in his mind for the continuation of the cabinet, Salam said: “I am still exercising patience here and I am still trying, but when I reach a dead end I will take a stance.

“I have reiterated more than once that it is useless to have a cabinet that is unable to convene,” added the PM, referring to the paralysis governing the cabinet.

“The most important subject facing us today is the trash file which is still a subject of dispute between the political forces. If it turns to me that they (political forces) do not want a solution I will be forced to name things as they are.”

A trash crisis erupted in July when the Naameh landfill was closed.

Efforts to solve the controversial file have failed so far despite a waste plan stipulated by Agriculture Minister Akram Shehayyeb.

“I have been accused of trying to control the jurisdictions of the Maronite president and others of neglecting those of the Sunni PM. I have adhered to my impartial stances and i always will. However things are no more acceptable and if I come to a conclusion on the need to give up my functions , it would only be to push the political forces to assume their responsibilities,” Salam concluded.

D.A.

M.T.