Third Referendum Consultation

New Caledonia has concluded a three-month community consultation on the archipelago’s future.

The survey, which was introduced by Overseas Minister Sebastian Lecornu, received input from across 100 meetings and 100 online submissions about the territory’s future and identity, including topics such as the environment and economy. 

The final report will be presented in May, when New Caledonia’s leaders are expected to travel to France to discuss the future of the island. 

France has agreed to allow New Caledonia a vote on holding a third and final referendum in the next 18 months, as stipulated under the Noumea Accord. However, New Caledonia currently doesn’t have a president, following the resignation of the pro-independence leaders from the government. 

The last three attempts to elect a president produced a deadlock, with loyalist leader Thierry Santa receiving four votes, with pro-independence candidates Louis Mapou and Samuel Hnepeune recording three votes each, with one member abstaining. 

New Caledonia recently lifted all coronavirus restrictions following a one-month lockdown, after an outbreak was detected from Wallis and Futuna. 

By Dominic McCarthy

Source: 

https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/440801/france-s-new-caledonia-consultation-wraps-up