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Increasing pressure on ocean resources: Koroilavesau

February 5, 2019 7:25 am

The Fisheries Ministry recognizes the ever increasing pressure on our ocean resources.

Minister responsible Semi Koroilavesau says they recognize the importance of resources especially for those who depend on it for the sustainability of their livelihoods.

Speaking at the second Fisheries Enforcement Forum in Suva yesterday, Koroilavesau says ensuring compliance and regulations is not an easy task for a country like Fiji.

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“We have a large EEZ and thousands of kilometers of coastal areas that’s spread over a wide geographical area. We are now reassessing our current management measures such as size limits to ensure these size limits are stirring the sustainable stock level that we need to ensure food security for all Fijians.”

Koroilavesau says they have to play catch up in initiating actions and managing the fishery resources.

He says various changes in climatic conditions have also contributed to the current depleted fish stock.

The Ministry has also completed the recruitment of additional inshore compliance officers to assist in strengthening the enforcement measures.