Fisheries meet discusses effects of Covid-19

MEASURES to mitigate the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change were discussed during the Forum Fisheries Committee meeting last week.
It was attended by representatives from the 17 members of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency.
Director-general Dr Manu Tupou-Roosen said: “The pandemic has resulted in a significant economic impact in member countries in key sectors such as tourism.
“This makes it even more important to ensure that other key economic activities such as fisheries continue to function effectively. Revenues and associated benefits need to be maximised in a sustainable manner.
“Food security also needs to be prioritised.”
The meeting discussed the agency’s response and recovery measures and how it approaches priorities in the coming year.
“The pandemic is undoubtedly a once-in-a-generation challenge and no less so for the Pacific’s tuna fisheries,” Dr Tupou-Roosen said.
“However, it also presents a range of opportunities to innovate how FFA operates and we are focused on actioning those opportunities.”
The meeting focused on an action plan for the long-line strategy, electronic monitoring policy, observer safety and livelihoods, and how to support members in increasing social benefits from the tuna fisheries.