Governor Announces “Timeout Extension” on Construction of TMT
By Maui Now Staff
Governor David Ige today announced, while in Hilo, that the Thirty Meter Telescope or “TMT” team has informed him it will postpone construction until Monday, April 20, 2015.
“I thank TMT for its willingness to be respectful and sensitive to all of Hawai‘i – its special people, its sense of place and its unique host culture,” said Governor Ige in a statement.
The action comes amid demonstrations at the site and the arrest of twelve individuals last week who blocked access for construction crews in the area.
Those against the project have expressed concerns over impacts to the mountain and continued development at the sacred site. Supporters say they believe that science and culture can coexist on the mountain and maintain that permits were secured to build at the location after a seven-year public process.
The announcement also comes the hula community convenes on the island for the annual Merrie Monarch Hula Festival that wraps up this week. Several hālau visited Mauna Kea to show their support for efforts to protect the mountain yesterday.
Photo courtesy Kahele Dukelow from a separate sign-waving demonstration held at UHMC on Thursday, April 2, 2015.
Photo courtesy Kahele Dukelow from a separate sign-waving demonstration held at UHMC on Thursday, April 2, 2015.
Photo courtesy Kahele Dukelow from a separate sign-waving demonstration held at UHMC on Thursday, April 2, 2015.
TMT Demonstration on Maui in Kīhei at Cove Park, April 8, 2015. Photo Credit :Leilani Zerkle & Instgram @laniijane Aloha
TMT Demonstration on Maui in Kīhei at Cove Park, April 8, 2015. Photo Credit :Leilani Zerkle & Instgram @laniijane Aloha
TMT Demonstration on Maui in Kīhei at Cove Park, April 8, 2015. Photo Credit :Leilani Zerkle & Instgram @laniijane Aloha
TMT Demonstration on Maui in Kīhei at Cove Park, April 8, 2015. Photo Credit :Leilani Zerkle & Instgram @laniijane Aloha
TMT Demonstration on Maui in Kīhei at Cove Park, April 8, 2015. Photo Credit :Leilani Zerkle & Instgram @laniijane Aloha
TMT Demonstration on Maui in Kīhei at Cove Park, April 8, 2015. Photo Credit :Leilani Zerkle & Instgram @laniijane Aloha
TMT Demonstration on Maui in Kīhei at Cove Park, April 8, 2015. Photo Credit :Leilani Zerkle & Instgram @laniijane Aloha
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