PNA considers that behind the presented claims there are commercial intentions of pole and line tuna fishing promoters. (Photo: IPNLF)

PNA regrets 'misleading' accusations against tuna fishery recertification

Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) has expressed disappointment at a misleading news article, which, in its opinion, unjustifiably frames the work carried out in joint efforts by the PNA Office, Pacifical, and people of the Pacific island nations throughout the last decade, as being ‘controversial’.

Contrary to what this article, published in The Grocer’s, says, PNA wants to reiterate that its recertification has “categorically not been suspended by MSC or the CAB.”

“Rather the CAB has strongly recommended recertification of PNA MSC fishery, for a second 5 year term for both MSC free-school skipjack and yellowfin,” stresses Ludwig Kumoru, PNA Chief Executive Officer in a statement.

The officer also explains that the objections raised by IP&L against the recertification process and basic principles of MSC are currently being considered by the CAB, for referral back to the independent adjudicator.

PNA CEO also states that if the independent auditor (IA) believes these claims are not purely scurrilous, then they believe that the IA process is the best way to critically and deeply evaluate the legitimacy of any objections against the MSC scheme and standards and following the principles of good governance and based on established scientific findings.

Kumoru outlines that the UK tuna retail sector and the global tuna industry have clearly recognized the agenda and commercial intentions of On The Hook campaign, adding that by attacking MSC’s standards and basic principles, and the recertification of world’s biggest sustainable tuna fishery using to polemic headlines including words such as ‘duped’, ‘controversy’ or ‘unsustainable’, it is clear that the aim of this campaign is to damage MSC, PNA and prevent recertification.

In his view, this is done for commercial gain and increased market share for the proponents, rather than any sustainability issues like it is claimed.

The leader recalls that a few months back, when this campaign to promote pole and line and enhance their market share started, they asked “On The Hook” sponsors and John Burton (in representation of World Wise Foods and the International Pole and Line Foundation) to get in touch with them directly to show them their concerns towards the sustainability of the PNA fishery.

“We are still open and will happily welcome any constructive criticisms, with sound recommendations, but are disappointed to see these blunt accusations as the only communication from OTH towards MSC, PNA and Pacifical,” Kumoru claimed.

PNA points out it has a proven and a well-recognized track record as having initiated the many innovative policies and conservation and management measures in its waters and indeed the broader WCPFC region.

Finally, it highlights that there is no other region or RFMO globally that can boast such healthy skipjack, yellowfin, bigeye and albacore stocks at present.
 

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Address:	PNA Office PO Box 3992
City:	Majuro
State/ZIP:	(MH 96960)
Country:	Marshall Islands
Phone:	+692 625 7626
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