Fiji’s Fisheries Minister Semi Koroilavesau says coastal fishing has increased as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic.
In a recent statement in Parliament, he said a study conducted in the provinces of Bua, Cakaudrove, Lomaiviti, and Ra indicated that out of the 26 villages that were assessed, 38 per cent admitted to having committed illegal fishing.
“These illegal activities include the harvesting of endangered species, catching undersized fish, fishing or selling without a license, and poaching in traditional tabu areas,” Mr Koroilavesau said.
He said this was evident in most areas where job losses resulted in an influx of individuals resorting to fishing for sustenance.
