Palau and shark finning

[BuoyantC]

An article in our local Micronesian paper today indicated the Palauan Legislature is considering the repeal of a current shark finning ban! Shark numbers have already been in serious decline and to go back in time for a few shortsighted $$$ seems insane.

For anyone contemplating a visit to Palau, I would suggest expressing your concerns to:
Embassy of the Republic of Palau
1701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Suite 300
Washington, D.C. 20006
Tel 202- 452-6814
Fax 202-452-6281
Email info@palauembassy.com

 

[pword]

Thanks for bringing this topic to light. Most people don't realize the fragile situation sharks are in and their threatened status worldwide because of finning. Hopefully international pressure can stop this apparent policy change.

 

[audrocks]

Talk about killing the goose that laid the golden egg.... It sounds as if some lucrative corporate support has been thrown behind this.

I've read that these organizations are working to fight this legislation:

Belau Tourism Association: bta@palaunet.com
Palau Chamber of Commerce: pcoc@palaunet.com
Palau Visitors Authority: pva@visit-palau.com

 

[dbeitz]

I recently received an email from a attorney in Palau who is also a dive buddy. She suggested sending letters to Senator Eledui, The OEK, The Capitol, Palau, PW 96940. He is heading up the committee that are discussing this new legislation.

 

[Travelnsj]

I was just there last week during Shark week and met Dr. Mark Meekan. It was explained to me Senator Ueki introduced to fix a budget problem. Basically it would be trading Hundreds of thousands of Dollars for immediate relief verses Millions of tourist dollars over the years. Although this legislation has little chance of passing I find it appalling it would even be brought up! Here are a couple of web sites that Dermot from Sams is involved in.

PALAU SHARK SANCTUARY
Shark Weeks

 

[BuoyantC]

Thanks for the follow up everyone. Even though living in Saipan is geographically close, sometimes it seems a million miles from anywhere!

 

[World Wide Diver]

Those in favour of shark finning must not be connected to tourism. IF shark finning is allowed in Palauan waters, then you can kiss 40% of dive tourism goodbye.

All the good work in Palau for the past decade or more will have gone up in smoke.

Good luck with the campaign.

We will help fight this in any way we can. Post on the Philippine Paradise Divers Forum - many make a trip to the Philippines and Palau. They are a good bunch who will help.

Cheers