23 Mar 2006

Palau legislature works on bottom trawling ban

8:40 pm on 23 March 2006

The bill that would ban the practice of bottom trawling in Palau's territorial waters and exclusive economic zone has been passed by the House of Delegates.

The Marianas Variety reports that the Bill now returns to the Senate which has to review the House amendments.

The bill states that any person or business entity which engages in or assists in bottom trawling, or which allows its vessel or equipment to be used for bottom trawling will forfeit the boat or equipment to the government.

The proposed law imposes a penalty of 10 years in jail and/or a maximum fine of half a million US dollars.