Forum: Aerial surveillance important

FISHERIES Ministers at their 17th fisheries committee meeting earlier this month have recognised the importance of aerial surveillance, after noting the increased risk of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
The meeting from Aug 6-7 also included the Pacific maritime security programme-Pacific Islands forum fisheries agency (PMSP/FFA).
The Australian department of defence and FFA agreed to temporarily suspend the PMSP/FFA aerial surveillance programme in March this year due to swift move by Pacific Island countries to restrict travel, coupled with uncertainty and risks involved.
The suspension was lifted on July 1 following gradual easing of travel restrictions and interest received from members to conduct maritime surveillance over their exclusive economic zones (EEZs).
FFA director-general Dr Manu Tupou-Roosen said resumption of PMSP/FFA aerial surveillance programme was important during this time.
“With the impacts of Covid-19 restrictions on other forms of monitoring such as observer coverage, constant aerial surveillance is critical for Pacific Island countries to monitor their vast EEZs,” Dr Manu said.