Maluku fishing worries Aussies

Maluku fishing worries Aussies

AMBON, Maluku: The Australian government has expressed concern
that some Maluku fishermen still use potassium and other toxic
chemicals to catch kerapu fish.

"I became deeply concerned after hearing the explanation from
the governor. Unless overcome soon, these activities would create
a problem for the Maluku population," Australian Embassy
counselor David Stuart said after meeting Maluku Governor Saleh
Latuconsina in Ambon Monday.

He said his government was ready to cooperate with the Maluku
administration to deal with the harmful fishing activities.

The governor said the vast Maluku waters provided good fishing
grounds for local as well as foreign fishermen so the safety and
interests of the local population should not be disregarded for a
quick catch.

Antara reported that Korean, Taiwan and Japanese fishermen
were still operating illegally in these waters, he said. There
had been cases in which the Navy caught them red-handed, and had
them brought to trial.

David Stuart said not only the fishermen must be caught, but,
more importantly, their employers.

He said Australia had a lot of experience in dealing with
illegal fishermen.

"We therefore wish to share our experience with the Maluku
authorities in dealing with this problem."