Minister Commissions New Patrol Vessel
The Bai ni Vualiku will be stationed in the Northern Division
The Ministry of Fisheries is adamant that the management and sustaining of our fisheries resources is achieved at the highest level.
This is after the ‘Bai Ni Vualiku’ fisheries patrol vessel was commissioned and launched at the Pearl Resort on Thursday afternoon by the Minister of Fisheries, Semi Koroilavesau.
“Over the past year, we have imposed a total ban on the harvest of beche de mer for export as well as seasonal bans on kawakawa and donu.,” Mr Koroilavesau said.
“All due to the mere fact that our coastal resources are depleting at an alarming rate. To be at the forefront of all this, conducting patrols and identifying offenders, while using such an asset is important.
“This vessel is the first of its kind to be funded by Government to ensure sustainability of marine resources through effective surveillance and patrol exercises.
“This is also the first of a few vessels that Government will fund, to help guarantee that our management role of sustaining our resources is achieved.”
He added while the Inshore Fisheries Division was the leading implementing arm, other coastal divisions will have to play their part in supporting surveillance activities. This would be by identifying high risk areas within their divisions, providing manpower to undertake patrols within coastal areas and provision of data in support of patrol activities.
The Bai ni Vualiku will be stationed in the Northern Division and will be used for patrolling Bua, Macuata and Cakaudrove waters.