Press Releases
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Aberdeen Fisheries Education Centre opens To gain a better understanding of the local capture fishing industry and our fisheries resources, the public may now visit the newly opened Aberdeen Fisheries Education Centre. The 190-square-metre Education Centre, set up by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), comprises an exhibition room, an activity room and an audio-visual room. "Through a series of exhibits, display boards, interactive games and a video show, the centre features various types of fishing vessels, fishing gear, seafood and fisheries management measures," Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Mr Thomas Chan said at the opening ceremony of the centre today (September 30). "We hope the centre will raise public understanding of the local capture fishing industry and enhance awareness of the need to conserve our fisheries resources and marine environment. This will increase support of our fisheries management measures for the sustainable development of the local fishing industry." Combating destructive fishing practices through enforcement of the Fisheries Protection Ordinance is one of AFCD's fisheries management measures, he said. Over the past two months, three persons have been fined a total of $60,000 for using destructive fishing methods. Other fisheries management measures include deployment of artificial reefs, restocking of fish and prawn fry, and designation of marine parks and a marine reserve. "To step up our conservation efforts, we are considering other fisheries management measures, including the establishment of a fishing licence system and fisheries protection areas, and implementation of a fishing moratorium in Hong Kong waters," Mr Chan said. Aberdeen is one of the oldest fishing ports in Hong Kong, with some 800 fishing vessels and more than 2,000 fishermen. Mr Chan hoped the centre would serve as a new attraction for both residents and tourists. Admission is free. The Fisheries Education Centre is located on the first floor, Aberdeen Fisheries Office, 100A, Shek Pai Wan Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong. School and group visits are welcome from Monday to Friday through a booking system. Application forms can be downloaded from the department's website www.hk-fish.net. Completed forms should be returned to the Centre by mail, by fax to 2814 0018 or by email to fishnet@netvigator.com. The centre is open to walk-in visitors on Saturday morning.
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