Press Releases
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Stringent control to curb destructive fishing practices Three kinds of fishing apparatus and devices detrimental to fisheries and the marine eco-system will be prohibited starting December 31, 1999. The Fisheries Protection (Specification of Apparatus) Notice gazetted today (Friday) sets out the classes of apparatus to be prohibited for fishing under the Fisheries Protection Regulations (Cap. 171). Speaking on the notice, a Government spokesman said: "Any apparatus that produces or transmits electricity, either operates by itself or with a net in water for capturing or stunning fish, will be prohibited. "The use of suction devices as well as dredging devices operate with nets or receptacles will also be prohibited. "It is part of the government's effort to curb electro-fishing and other destructive fishing practices to help protect local fisheries resources," he added. The spokesman reminded all fishermen, especially those involved in capturing shrimps and clams, to observe the regulations. "Any person contravenes such restrictions will be prosecuted and is liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six-months' imprisonment," he said. Enforcement of the regulations is taking up by the Agriculture and Fisheries Department together with the Hong Kong Police Force, which includes searching for and seizure of the prohibited fishing apparatus. |
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