Senator Enrique Martinez (PLD-La Romana) alerted that behind the desire of some senators to convert Saona Island into a municipality is the interest in commercially exploiting the island, more than at present. Saona Island today is a natural sanctuary and natural reserve. If converted into a municipality, it would lose the special legal protection that impedes full commercial exploitation of the island. "Everyone knows how the municipalities in the DR operate, that is the dangerous part," said Senator Martínez. "One has to see which economic sectors are behind this bill," he said. He said the bill will not benefit the inhabitants of the island and could instead destroy the paradise-like natural habitat. A senate commission will visit the island next week. The Saona Island excursion is the most sold excursion. Some 12 tour operators sell the tour. Tourists are taken to the natural habitat, where there are only the essential constructions. The island is 92 square kilometers and has a population of 450 inhabitants. There are 300 houses in the Mano Juan, Adamanay, Punta Catuano, Punta Cacon, Los Abanicos and Subidero communities. The population lives off fishing and sales of souvenirs to the visiting tourists. There is a school that reaches fourth grade. (21 June 2000)
