New Zealand Fisherman faces prosecution for deaths of albatrosses during observed fishing trip
A commercial fisherman is to be prosecuted and faces a fine of up to $100,000 after dozens of albatross were killed during a fishing trip. The unnamed fisherman is being prosecuted by the Ministry For Primary Industries, which is now set to introduce additional measures to help prevent more seabird deaths as a result of the incident. A statement released by MPI today said the birds were killed when the commercial fisherman failed to use a tori line – a compulsory device used to scare birds away from baited hooks – while fishing for southern bluefin tuna off the West Coast of New Zealand. “The skipper faces a maximum fine of $100,000 in relation to an offence under the Fisheries (Commercial Fishing) Regulations and forfeiture of the vessel used in the operation.” The incident was reported by an MPI observer who was on board the vessel at the time. Read the rest here 09:47
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