Network calls for halt to projects

At least 100 members of the Eastern People Network led by Sutthi Atchasai on Wednesday morning rallied in front of Government House calling on Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to comply with the court order suspending 76 industrial projects, most in Map Ta Phut industrial estate.

“These industrial projects will have a negative impact on local people’s health and the environment,” Mr Sutthi said.

He claimed that three members of the Council of State, which issued an opinion that the government could grant permission for the industrial projects to move ahead, were board members of giant firms with plans to invest in the eastern industrial estate.

Mr Sutthi said the decision by the government to appeal against the Administrative Court's injunction - citing economic benefits for the country - was purely for the benefits of the investors and without any regard for the well being of  local people.