SENATOR J. KALANI ENGLISH STATEMENT ON CLOSURE OF MOLOKA'I RANCH

Senator expresses confidence in people of Moloka'i.

HONOLULU – Senator J. Kalani English (District 6 - Hana, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i and Kaho'olawe) today issued the following statement on plans announced by Moloka'i Properties Limited—better known as Moloka'i Ranch—to shut down operations on Moloka'i at the end of March:

"Clearly, this will be a blow to the economy and people of Moloka'i. In a community of roughly 7,500 residents, the loss of 120 jobs will have a significant impact. However, knowing the Moloka'i community as I do, I am very confident that the people who call Moloka'i home will find a way to deal with these issues, and help those who bear the direct burden's of Moloka'i Ranch's closure."

"Moloka'i residents have for years sought to address difficult questions about their lifestyle and the unique culture of their island. Throughout that time, however, they have maintained segments of their historical subsistence economy, with continued reliance on fishing and agriculture to ensure that food remains available despite economic hardships. That culture and dedication to preserving their preferred lifestyle will pay dividends now, as they come to grips with this latest pressure on their economy."

"I do hope, however, that the actions of Moloka'i Properties Limited are based on the company's legitimate concerns about the state of the Moloka'i economy, and not presented as a bargaining chip in their efforts to impose their desire for development on the Moloka'i community."

"Finally, I note that while Moloka'i Ranch has stated that it will close all access to its property, the company as a landowner has a duty to respect the native gathering rights of Moloka'i's Hawaiian population. I hope that the company will act responsibly in respecting the rights of the community."

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