|
|
 |
|
       |
|
|
|
CyprusCyprus sells its flag to foreign companies seeking to escape fisheries regulation - hence the term, "flag of convenience". There are several pirate toothfish vessels using the Cyprus flag. It's time for Cyprus to end its involvement with pirate fishing vessels.Contact the State Department Today
Sample Letter Ministery of Foreign Affairs Dear Sir: I am extremely concerned about the uncontrolled pirate fishing for toothfish in the waters of the Southern Ocean. Many of the illegal vessels found fishing for toothfish in the Southern Ocean are flagged in Cyprus. Scientists estimate that at the current rate of fishing, the fishery would collapse within two years. In addition, many thousands of vulnerable species of seabirds, such as albatrosses and petrels, are dying on hooks intended to catch toothfish. The entire Southern Ocean ecosystem is at risk. Cyprus is one of the main flag-of-convenience countries known to provide easy registration for the vessels of companies seeking to avoid the tight regulations imposed their home countries. I am shocked that this country provides an easy registration option for those who pay no heed to environmental considerations designed to protect the world's oceans and seas - in this case the fragile ocean around Antarctica. I demand that Cyprus end this association with pirate fishing and maintain a shipping register of which your nation can be proud. Sincerely,
|
   |
|
|
 |
International Office Address: © Greenpeace International |