TRIAL of the restaurant owner who denied distributing plastic disposal forks to his customers at his restaurant last June, is set to start on February 3.
Xian Pan Li faces one count of distribution of single-use plastic contrary to clause 4 (2) of the Environment (SINGLE USE PLASTIC BAN) Regulations 2023, as read with section 55 of the Environment Act 1998.
The Honiara Magistrate’s Court heard the matter on Friday for an interim mention, leading up to the trial which is expected to last for a week.
Magistrate Emily Zazariko Vagibule Pakoa announced that the court is still searching for an interpreter for Li, who does not speak or understand English or Pijin.
The interpreter is arranged by the High Court.
An interpreter was previously arranged for Li when he took his plea and during the pre-trial conference of his matter.
The prosecution alleges Li, owner of the Wah Leung Shop at Tandai Highway, West Honiara distributed plastic disposal forks to his customers on 12 June 2024, which falls under the banned items listed under the “SINGLE USE PLASTIC BAN” Regulations of 2023.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
