VP Chin Says Comprehensive Legislation Against Shark Finning Is Needed

April 8, 2008

Release from: Nazario Rodriguez Jr.
Marianas Variety (Micronesia)

Vice President Elias Camsek Chin said that if he gets elected as President he would make sure that a comprehensive legislation to stop shark finning would be in-placed.

Speaking before participants of the Shark Week 2008 sponsored by the Micronesian Shark Foundation at the Barracuda Restaurant on Wednesday night, Chin said Palau is not so strict against this illegal practice.

“I think that we have to ask Congress for higher penalties,” Chin said.

He informed that only two had been put in jail and spent only two months.

The Vice President said there should be enforcement of tougher laws against illegal fishing.

He also wants to increase surveillance at sea because there is no choice for Palau but protect the sharks and stop illegal poachers from further depleting the shark population.

When asked if he will also burn seized shark fins like what President Remengesau ordered about a year ago, Chin said the burning was necessary but now, “we can sell and use the money to educate the people about the need to conserve the sharks.”