CNMI before contacting the governor. He has every right to object to that conduct. It constituted an inexplicable major breach of political protocol and island etiquette.
However, with all due respect to the senior policy advisor, there was not then, nor is there now, a “proposal” in the sense of terms, conditions, definitions, etc, that apply in the normal business sense. Thus, there was, and is, nothing to which the government could have provided input.
What there is is a recommendation, if you will, that Maug, Asuncion and Uracas be considered a candidate for designation by the President Bush as a “monument.” That is it. There is no more. That is all there is to review, to comment on. It can, in no way, be considered a “proposal” in the business sense of that word.
It is unclear just what the senior policy advisor believes could have been added by consultation with the administration. Particularly since a member of the Fitial “clan,” Cinta Kaipat, was involved in setting the boundaries of the recommended sanctuary.
Moreover, what is involved in declaring a monument is defined in the Antiquities Act of 1906. That is not a proposal either. Nor is it susceptible to review and comment. It is a U.S. law, already on the books.
Plans will be drawn up if, as and when Bush does designate the northern waters as a monument. That is the time when input, participation, consultation would take place.
Until then, it’s only a recommendation. Surely it is allowed to make recommendations?
RUTH TIGHE
Tanapag, Saipan
