Dr. Visser of New Zealand is correct in her statements regarding the ILLEGAL dolphin exports to China. This export was done without license from the Fisheries Ministry. I ask what Solomon Islander will benefit from the 75,000 USD paid for each dolphin by the Chinese aquarium? Just a few people line their pockets from this illicit trade.
If the Solomons truly want to expand their tuna processing and exports, then this dolphin traffic operation must end now.
Frabelle and Dong Won tuna will not get the dolphin safe tuna approval needed for export if the Solomon Islands govt continues to allow the export and catch of dolphins.
China has a deplorable record on protection of dolphins, and other species.
The capture and trade in all types of wildlife is out of control. Dolphins survive less than five years on average in tiny tanks in many of the aquariums in China and elsewhere in Asia.
It is time this trade end once and for all. Dolphin Safe tuna is the economy for the Solomon Islands, not the capture and export of dolphins to add to the wealth of a select few.
Mark Berman
Associate Director
Earth Island Institute
USA
Dolphin Exports to China
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this letter are those of Mark Berman and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Solomon Times Online.
What do you think? Any Comments?
Comment here or write your own Letter to the Editor.
Disclaimer: Solomon Times Online may edit or delete your comment and cannot guarantee that all submissions will be published or remain online. The comments expressed on these page are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Solomon Times Online.