The American Samoa US Congressman, Faleomavaega Eni Hunkin, says he is opposed to a federal proposal to expand the Fagatele Marine Sanctuary to include five additional sites.
He has written to the National Oceania and Atmospheric Administration emphasising the need for a thorough review of the sustainable Management Plan for the protected sites, before considering any expansion.
The congressman said extending federal protection over communal property may be seen by some as a federal imposition on the rights of the local communities and villages.
Faleomavaega says this is a very sensitive issue to the people of American Samoa and it is very important for the National Oceania and Atmospheric Administration to get it right.
