POACHING is no longer a major problem faced by the Macuata Qoliqoli Cokovata committee, says Macuata high chief Ratu Aisea Katonivere.
The situation, he said, had improved following the introduction of fishing wardens in the province.
Ratu Aisea said fishing wardens had done a great job over the past two years.
"The poaching problem that we used to face is no longer an issue for the committee.
"The situation has improved but even with that, we are not too complacent and have continued to work towards totally stopping poaching in our waters," Ratu Aisea said.
He said the support given to fishing wardens from villagers in the province was positive.
"It is important that support remains for our wardens and that also includes training and machineries to help them carry out their work.
"We never know when dark days approach with the poaching issues so it is always good to be prepared and supporting our fishing wardens is part of that," Ratu Aisea said. Poaching has always been a challenge for the province of Macuata before the introduction of fishing wardens, he said.
The issue was discussed at provincial council meetings before it was agreed to introduct fishing wardens.