By Atuna
Scientists and fisheries managers representing the thirty seven members, cooperating non-members and participating territories (CCMs) of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) will meet for the sixth annual session of the Commission’s Scientific Committee at Port Vila, Vanuatu 10-21 August.
The main issue on the agenda will be an evaluation of the likely outcomes of the Commission’s bigeye and yellowfin conservation and management Measure that was adopted at the last annual Session of the Commission at
That Measure set an objective of achieving a 30% reduction in the fishing mortality of bigeye tuna, and no increase in the fishing mortality of yellowfin tuna, from 2001-2004 levels. This was to be achieved during the period 2009-2011.
Although several members have adopted alternative actions for their fleets since the adoption of the Busan Measure the main response commences on August 1st with a closure of the purse seine fishery operating on floating objects in exclusive economic zones and on the high seas for 2 months.
According to the Commission, fisheries officials from Members countries are currently actively involved in securing appropriately authorized observers to monitor the fishing activities of vessels that remain at sea during the closure period.
Two hundred and seventeen (217) purse seiners operate in waters beyond national jurisdiction in the WCPO purse seine fishery. In excess of 250 observers have been trained for the monitoring purpose. At least 350 observers will be required from 2010 when observer coverage will increase to 100% of purse seine fishing operations throughout the year.
One hundred and forty participants are expected at the Scientific Committee meeting. The meeting will provide scientific advice and recommendations to the next annual session of the Commission which is scheduled for December 2009 in Tahiti,