Dr. Josie Tamate, Chair of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), conveyed a vital message to Pacific communities during this week’s negotiations in Manila, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to preserving tuna stocks and the species that depend on them. In an interview with PACNEWS, she highlighted that the Commission’s work is grounded in scientific research and long-term responsibility.
“The Commission is working diligently to ensure the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) maintains the healthy status of key tuna species,” Dr. Tamate stated. She pointed out that the Commission’s responsibility goes beyond just tuna to encompass the broader marine ecosystem. “We continue to mitigate the impact of fishing on non-targeted species such as seabirds, sea turtles, and cetaceans,” she added.
As Pacific Island economies significantly rely on tuna for revenue and food security, local communities have been seeking assurances from their leaders amidst ongoing discussions surrounding harvest strategies, high-seas transshipment, climate risks, and compliance challenges.
Dr. Tamate reiterated that the guiding principle of the Commission is straightforward: “The work of the Commission is ongoing and decisions are based on science. The ultimate goal is to sustain the healthy status of the fishery. It is better to maintain rather than rebuild when and if a fish stock collapses.”
The WCPFC22 meetings continue this week, as member nations face pressure to agree on crucial measures that will impact the future of the region’s multi-billion-dollar tuna industry. The outcomes of these negotiations are critical, not only for ecological balance but also for the economic well-being of communities that depend on tuna fishing. The Commission’s proactive approach aims to foster a sustainable future for both the species and the communities that rely on them.