After sea turtle deaths, officials to meet today to define strategy
Stock image.
February 5th, 2013 (InsideCostaRica.com) The Deputy Minister of Water and Oceans, Jose Lino Chaves, confirmed that the death of 294 sea turtles in Costa Rican waters was due to asphyxia, and scientists responsible for the investigation and autopsies of the animals indicated that the animals were likely entangled in nets or fishing lines.
“This causes us great concern because we’re not talking about just 300 turtles, the fact is that rich marine wildlife is disappearing irrationally,” Chaves said.
As a result, the Coastguard, Costa Rican Institute of Fishing and Aquaculture (INCOPESCA) and the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), will meet today to define a strategy for controlling environmental damage.
Chaves is also asking the Environmental Court and other bodies such as the National Animal Health Service (SENASA) and the National Guard for their support to create a joint enforcement program.
“We will establish control and real vigilance against illegal fishing, illegal baits, hooks not allowed and fishing nets not permitted by the law, [and violators will be] punished to the full extent of the law,” Chaves said.
The deputy minister said he expects to see results from the program in less than a month.
Chaves also said that the results of the investigation are being sent to the Environmental Court to proceed with the case.
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