Four biologically significant areas have been gazetted as marine protected areas by the Fisheries ministry in the last five years.

While making his ministerial statement in parliament yesterday, Fisheries Minister Semi Koroilavesau says this includes the dive site in the Wainiyabia-Serua, Wakaya marine reserve, Naiqoro passage and the Kiuva marine reserve.

Koroilavesau says the ministry also has designated more than 200 MPAs in the last two decades in an effort to conserve and protect our marine resources.

He adds traditional taboos are also enabling coastal communities to protect the vulnerable species and its ecosystem.

“The same practice have been supported through adoption of legislative provision and gazette, this progress allows customary fishing right owners to effectively protect their resources from poachers and are able to take offenders to court.”

The ministry also put in place bans on specific marine species if the need arises to ensure its stock is replenished for future generations.

Meanwhile, the Fisheries ministry is also working with relevant stake holders to ensure that up to 30 percent of our marine waters are safe and protected.