At a recent meeting of the Committee for Tourism, Agriculture, Ecology, and Spatial Planning, discussions revolved around the proposal regarding the feasibility of implementing a liquid gas terminal in the Port of Bar through Montenegro’s Spatial Plan. Ministers emphasized that the construction of a gas thermal power plant and a terminal for transshipment of liquefied natural gas in the Port of Bar will not commence until analyses demonstrate that it does not jeopardize the environment and public health.
“The advantage of gas power plants is that they can be put into operation and shut down very quickly. As for the terminal, its installation in the port, in my opinion, should not have any negative implications. On the contrary, it would be a good solution from the perspective of economic development,” said Saša Mujović, Minister of Energy and Mining.
Janko Odović, Minister of Spatial Planning, Urbanism, and State Property, stated that during the planning process of locating the reservoirs, all standards prescribed by European and national practices were adhered to. “This includes environmental protection and fire protection. The Volujica Hill will serve as a shield to protect the city and the port in case of accidents,” Odović emphasized.
Miodrag Bešović from the Directorate for Protection and Rescue guaranteed that the Ministry of the Interior will not provide a positive opinion until all conditions ensuring the safety of citizens and property are met.
However, there is a divergence of opinions on the construction of the terminal between government and opposition members.
Vladislav Bojović from the Democratic Front emphasized the importance of supporting a thorough analysis and study, especially regarding the impact on the environment. “We must not isolate and close the Port of Bar; it must operate and function,” stated Momčilo Leković from the Democratic Montenegro Party.
Branislav Nenezić from the Social Democrats believes that potential drawbacks of the terminal include the risk of harmful substance leakage, degradation of coastal ecosystems, and endangerment of marine species. He also expressed concerns about potential job losses in fishing and tourism, as well as a potential decrease in property values, which is why he opposes the construction of the terminal.
Dejan Đurović, the Chairman of the Committee for Tourism, Agriculture, Ecology, and Spatial Planning, noted that tourism could be an auxiliary support to the economy of the city of Bar but cannot be solely reliant on tourism.
The government reminded that by joining the Energy Community, Montenegro committed to fulfilling the European Union’s requirements, which is ready to finance the construction of the terminal in the Port of Bar.
