Opposition Spokesperson on Land and the Environment, Senator Sophia Fraser Binns is calling on the government to delay the implementation of the ban on single use plastic bags, to allow for islandwide public education and awareness campaign.

The ban comes into effect next Tuesday, January 1.

Mrs. Fraser Binns says the Opposition believes that more time is needed before the ban is implemented.

She says as a first step, there should be an extensive public education campaign at the community and national level, among shop owners and operators of businesses.

She told Irie FM News that while the opposition supports the ban on single use plastic bags, and believes that this is a major step toward protecting the environment, it must be approached with much more seriousness than is presently receiving.

Mrs. Frazer-Binns adds that the Opposition stands ready to support a strong public education campaign, to ensure its smooth implementation.