|
|
 |
|
       |
|
|
|
NorwayNorwegian fishing companies and interests played a significant role in the "gold rush" Patagonian toothfish fishery at its peak. It's believed that Norwegian involvement has perhaps lessened in recent years and Norway has introduced national legislation to deter Norwegians from fishing illegally. CCAMLR licences are still granted to Norwegian interests. It's time for Norway to do more to end pirate fishing in the Southern Ocean.Contact the Norwegian government today
Sample Letter Knut Vollebęk Dear Mr. Scully: I am extremely concerned about the uncontrolled pirate fishing for toothfish in the Southern Ocean in which Norway has been a major player in the past. 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. Despite widespread recognition that illegal fishing in the Southern Ocean is raging out of control and very little is known about the extent and impact of illegal fishing, Norway continues to place additional pressure on this unique environment by licensing still more fishing. This cannot be considered precautionary. It is apparent that Norway is currently placing more importance on pressure from commercial fishing companies than to the need to conserve this Antarctic fish. Pirate fishing companies will continue to find ways to disguise their trade in illegally caught fish as long as there is toothfish caught under CCAMLR license on the market. As a member of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), our government has both the opportunity and responsibility to act on behalf of this fragile ecosystem. I urge you to demand a moratorium on fishing for toothfish in the Southern Ocean, backed by a trade ban, until the pirate fishing is eliminated. We should oppose the resumption of fishing for toothfish in the Southern Ocean until it can be demonstrated that the fishery can withstand the impact of commercial fishing and that effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms are in place to prevent the return of pirate vessels. Yours Sincerely,
Peter Angelsen
|
   |
|
|
 |
International Office Address: © Greenpeace International |