A U.K. sponsored pelagic fishing study commenced in the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Turks and Caicos Islands today Friday, October 18, 2013. The study will determine the economic feasibility of developing an off-shore fisheries industry for the TCI, in addition to providing the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) with stock characteristic of various pelagic species.
At the time of this report, Dayboat I, the vessel being used in the study, is bringing in its first haul, which includes swordfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, big-eye tuna, yellowfin tuna and albacore. A shark and blue marlin were landed live and released, along with all undersized catch. No other bycatch has been reported at this time. A DEMA observer is aboard the vessel and DEMA is also able to monitor activities via virtual software.
When asked about today’s activities, DEMA Director Kathleen Wood said, “We are pleased that so far, all activities associated with this study appear to be proceeding as planned and as agreed. We know that there has been a lot of controversy surrounding this study but are confident that the sustainable methods employed and the results gleaned will speak for themselves and alleviate any concerns that the public may have now that the study is underway. We are hopeful that pelagic fisheries stocks will be sufficient to provide alternative livelihoods to TCI fishers.
Once the first voyage is completed, DEMA will be releasing all of the statistical data from the catch. DEMA also welcomes comments and questions from the public and can be contacted at environment@gov.tc and 941-5122.
