Tuvalu leads the way in ensuring safe and fair fishing: A GLOBAL CALL TO ACTION

Matelina Stuart  Admin  , , , , , , ,

In a celebration of commitment to the rights and welfare of fishing crews, Tuvalu stole the spotlight at the WCPFC 20 conference in Rarotonga. Acknowledging the commendable efforts of the Commission, Tuvalu stands shoulder to shoulder with fellow members, voicing support and sharing strides taken to safeguard the rights of those toiling in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Tuvalu proudly announced its proactive measures during the conference, showcasing a groundbreaking initiative implemented in 2020. With the steadfast support of the FFA, Tuvalu adopted a national regulation setting minimum labor and human rights standards for fishing vessels operating in its waters. This milestone makes Tuvalu one of the pioneering Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the WCPO region under the FFA.

The global pandemic posed challenges, but Tuvalu’s government proved resilient. Plans were laid out for regular meetings with stakeholders to implement and enforce the law, slated to begin on January 1, 2024.

Collaboration has been key for Tuvalu. Consultations with the FFA, the International Labour Organization (ILO), other UN agencies, the Commission, and fishing partner companies have been ongoing. Recently, funds from the government of New Zealand were utilized for comprehensive training programs for Tuvalu crews in Funafuti.

Tuvalu’s gratitude extends beyond its borders. There is acknowledgment of potential assistance from funds such as the Canada Indo-Pacific Programme to further support these vital regulations. Tuvalu also tips its hat to the faculty staff at ANCORS, University of Wollongong, for their indirect yet impactful work, providing valuable guidance and recommendations.

As a small country with a population just over 11,000, Tuvalu understands the intrinsic value of its people, holding them close to its heart. Standing before the commission, Tuvalu issues a call to all Coastal States to unite in mutual support, ensuring that work in the fishing industry is safe, dignified, and fulfilling for every fisher on every vessel.

Tuvalu’s story is one of resilience, collaboration, and a passionate commitment to a brighter and safer future for all who contribute to the lifeblood of the oceans.

Tuvalu and Korea Strengthen Ties with Historic Fisheries Cooperation and Aid Project

Matelina Stuart  Admin, Uncategorized  , , , , , ,

Funafuti, Tuvalu – A momentous celebration took place last week as Tuvalu and Korea joined hands to commemorate their long-standing and mutually beneficial cooperation, particularly in the flourishing fisheries sector. This historic partnership, rooted in trust and friendship, has been a cornerstone of both nations’ prosperity.

Korean fishing vessels have been a common sight in Tuvalu waters since the early 1980s. Today, Korea stands as Tuvalu’s most vital bilateral fishing partner, making an indispensable contribution to the government’s revenue. This enduring connection has woven the fabric of these two nations, transcending borders and cultures.

The grand celebration in Funafuti saw the convergence of esteemed Tuvalu Government Officials, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Local Government, a dedicated Korean delegation comprising 39 members, and diligent staff from the Ministry of Fisheries & Trade. Over 200 invited guests added to the festivity, transforming the idyllic Funafuti Island into a symbol of international camaraderie.
The Republic of Korea, through its Official Development Assistance (ODA) Project, has extended a generous hand to Tuvalu, pledging an impressive US$5 million in financial assistance. These funds will be dedicated to the construction of critical infrastructure, including the Fisheries Department Training Centre, storage facilities, a boat shed, a fisheries jetty, and a solar system for the National Fishing Corporation of Tuvalu (NAFICOT) and the Fisheries Observer and Fisheries Assistant Office (FOFA). As a testament to the depth of their commitment, Korea has also offered to provide outboard motor training for Tuvalu’s fisheries staff in Suva, Fiji, along with a unique Korean culture and language training experience for Tuvalu Fisheries Observers. This project stands as a historic first for Korea’s involvement in Tuvalu, signifying a new era of cooperation and shared goals.

Korea’s significance to Tuvalu extends beyond fisheries revenue. On average, Korean vessels purchase around 40% of Tuvalu’s annual permitted fishing effort (PAE) each year but they are also the primary employer for Tuvalu’s diligent Fisheries observers. Offers have also been made to employ Tuvaluan trainees in fish processing factories in Korea.

The celebratory program kicked off last week, at Queen Elizabeth Park Hall. Korean delegates organized a special program and engaging activities with the school’s young students, fostering an atmosphere of shared learning and cultural exchange.

The main event, a grand spectacle held on November 3rd, 2023, at Queen Elizabeth Park Hall and Tomasi Puapua Convention Centre from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm, featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and inspiring speeches. Tuvalu Acting Prime Minister, Hon. Ampelosa Tehulu, and Mr. Meyong-dal Song, Deputy Minister for Oceans and Fisheries of the Government of the Republic of Korea, shared their thoughts. The Ambassador for the Embassy of South Korea in Suva, Fiji, Mr. Park Youngkyu, also added his voice to this remarkable chorus of friendship.

Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister of Fisheries & Trade summed up the sentiment, stating, “I thank you for your support and generosity through this US$5 million project. Tuvalu has benefited from donations of goods and equipment from Korea in the past, and this major new project takes Korea’s development cooperation to a new level.” He further emphasized the profound and enduring bond in the fisheries sector, underscoring the vital role played by Korea in contributing to the Tuvalu Government’s revenue.

The program continued with a captivating showcase of Korean culture, illuminating videos about Korea’s contributions to climate change response, and further cultural exchanges and performances that celebrated the shared heritage of Korea and Tuvalu. The day concluded with a delectable brunch prepared by the Government of Tuvalu, symbolizing the unity and shared future envisaged by the event.

As the sun set on this remarkable day, the festivities continued with a closing dinner hosted at the Funafuti Lagoon Hotel. This exquisite evening brought together Korean VIPs and Tuvalu Government Officials, symbolizing the enduring friendship and the bright future of collaboration between these two nations. The event was graciously hosted by Mr. Meyong-dal Song, Deputy Minister for Oceans and Fisheries of the Government of the Republic of Korea.

The launch of the Korean ODA Project marks a significant milestone, underscoring the power of international cooperation, friendship, and shared aspirations. This initiative is poised to leave an indelible mark on Tuvalu’s fisheries sector and the overall prosperity of the nation, heralding a new era of development and collaboration that will benefit generations to come.

Ten Tuvaluan Crew Members Graduate as Purse Seine Experts

Matelina Stuart  Uncategorized  , , , , , , ,

In a significant step towards bolstering its domestic fishing industry and providing employment opportunities for its citizens, Tuvalu Maritime Training Institute (TMTI) and the Tuvalu Fisheries Department (TFD) jointly celebrated the graduation of ten local Tuvaluans as purse seine crew members. This achievement aligns with Tuvalu Fisheries’ primary objectives of nurturing opportunities for Tuvaluan fishing crew and ensuring that all Tuvalu-flagged vessels employ Tuvalu crew members.

The graduation ceremony took place at the Tuvalu Maritime Training Institute (TMTI), commencing at 10:30 am today, Friday the 6th of October 2023. The event featured remarks from key figures, including SPC Fisheries Development Officer- Fishing Technology William Sokimi, TFSP Manager Noa Petueli, Fisheries Deputy Director Fulitua Tealei, and TMTI CEO Uale Sinapati.

William Sokimi, the SPC Fisheries Development Officer – Fishing Technology, provided comprehensive training to the ten graduates on handling purse seine operations aboard vessels. TMTI staff members contributed to the program by delivering training on various aspects of sea safety, first aid, occupational health and safety, firefighting, and survival at sea. The intensive purse seine training program was successfully completed within a month and was funded by the Tuvalu Fisheries Support Program (TFSP2).

Expressing his appreciation, Uale Sinapati, CEO of TMTI, extended gratitude to Mr. Sokimi, TMTI and TFD staff, and TFSP for their collective efforts in the successful purse seine crew training. He emphasized the importance of maintaining and continuing such training programs in the future.

William Sokimi, the SPC Fisheries Development Officer, shared his pleasure in collaborating with TMTI staff, particularly in training the ten new crew members. He highlighted the training as an opportunity to rejuvenate and enhance their skills as seafarers. Sokimi expressed his commitment to ongoing purse seine training to ensure the recruitment of high-quality crew for future endeavours.

Fulitua Tealei, Tuvalu Fisheries Deputy Director, congratulated the ten new crew members on their achievements. She stated that the Fisheries Department is actively working on placing local crew members on Tuvalu-flagged purse seine vessels. Tealei expressed optimism about the prospects of Tuvalu crew members being placed on six purse seine vessels, including five Korean vessels and one Taiwanese vessel, in the near future.

The Government of Tuvalu remains committed to promoting employment opportunities on fishing vessels and has established new policies and regulations to ensure fair wages and proper care for local purse seine crew members by their employers. This initiative reflects Tuvalu’s dedication to nurturing its fishing industry and providing valuable livelihood opportunities for its citizens.

The graduation of these 10 purse seine crews represents a significant stride in advancing Tuvalu’s fisheries sector while empowering local talent and contributing to the nation’s economic development.

Join the PNAO Team as a VDS/VMS Officer!

Matelina Stuart  Vacancies  , , , , ,

Are you passionate about marine conservation and fisheries management? Do you have the skills and experience to make a difference in the Pacific region? The Parties to the Nauru Agreement Office (PNAO) is looking for a dedicated VDS/VMS Officer to play a vital role in our mission to safeguard our oceans.

Position: VDS/VMS Officer

Location: PNA Headquarters, Pacific Region

Responsibilities: As a VDS/VMS Officer at PNAO, you will be at the forefront of marine resource management. Your key responsibilities will include:

✅ Assisting in the management and administration of the Vessel Day Scheme (VDS).

✅ Monitoring and reporting on Vessels MTUs and FAD Buoys in FIMS (Fisheries Information Management System).

✅ Reviewing, verifying, and updating positional data in PNA FIMS for VDS error correction.

✅ Maintaining data integrity in FIMS received through FIMS Users.

✅ Conducting VDS trainings and workshops.

✅ Providing technical support to Parties, industry, and other FIMS users.

✅ Managing relations with PNA VDS/VMS Service Providers.

✅ Reviewing technological requirements and scoping documents to ensure the effective and efficient operation of the VDS.

✅ Reporting to Parties at the PNA Annual and Special PNA meetings.

✅ Performing other duties as assigned.

Essential Requirements: To excel in this role, you should possess:

🎓 A High School degree or equivalent.

🎓 Training qualification as a fishery officer/observer.

🎓 Training in IT or a relevant subject area.

🎓 A relevant degree (desirable).

👥 A minimum of two years’ experience in VDS administration at the Party level.

💻 Experience in operating databases, spreadsheets, word processing, and reporting systems.

💼 High-level computer operating skills.

📝 Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

For a detailed job description, visit  the PNA website at www.pnatuna.com

What PNAO Offer: The successful applicant will be offered a three-year contract with a comprehensive remuneration package, including the possibility of extension.

Application Details: This position is open to anyone, but preference is given to PNA nationals. To apply, please submit the following documents electronically to jobs@pnatuna.com:

  1. A letter of interest addressed to the CEO.
  2. A brief CV highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications.
  3. Two reference letters.

Application Deadline: Sunday, October 15, 2023

Join us in making a real impact on sustainable fisheries management in the Pacific region. Apply now and be part of the PNAO team dedicated to preserving our oceans for future generations. 🌊🐟🌏 #PNACareers #MarineConservation #FisheriesManagement

Closed: Vacancy Advertisement: 2 Community Fisheries Officer

Matelina Stuart  Vacancies  , , ,

Are you passionate about fisheries and eager to make a difference in your community? The TFSP2 project under the Tuvalu Fisheries Department is recruiting two Community Fisheries Officers to work in Niutao and Nukufetau. If you have a strong educational background or seaman training experience and are dedicated to enhancing fisheries management in your home island, we want to hear from you.

Position Requirements:

  • Minimum qualification: Form Six graduate with excellent grades in Maths and English OR completion of seaman training at Amatuku.
  • Strong interest in fisheries management and development within local communities.
  • Physically fit and enthusiastic about fishing and diving.
  • Possess good practical skills.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist in the management and development of fisheries activities within the Niutao community.
  • Collaborate with local stakeholders to promote sustainable fishing practices.
  • Engage in data collection and analysis related to fisheries.
  • Participate in community outreach and educational programs.

Employment Details:

  • Contract duration: Up to 1 year, with potential for extension subject to Government funding.
  • Salary: Commencing at $12,100 per year (based on Level 8/7 of the Government scale).
  • 10-week training program at TMTI and Fisheries provided to successful applicants.
  • Additional short in-service courses for skill enhancement.

How to Apply:

  •  Click here to download the full job description in PDF format: Job Description CFOs – Niutao
  • Pick up a printed copy of the job description from our Teone office.
  • Send your letter of application to opetaia.noa@gmail.com through email, or bring a hard copy to the Fisheries office during working hours only.

Application Deadline: October 2, 2023

If you are enthusiastic about preserving Tuvalu’s rich marine resources, promoting sustainability, and contributing to your local community, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for! Join us in making a positive impact on Niutao and Nukufetau’s fisheries.

Tuvalu Takes Bold Steps to Access Lucrative EU Fish Market

Matelina Stuart  Admin  , , , , , ,

In a significant development for Tuvalu’s fishing industry, the country has taken critical steps to secure a spot on the European Union (EU) market. Two key initiatives have been launched recently, marking a substantial leap forward for the nation’s aspirations to boost its economic prospects.

From August 7th to 18th, 2023, the Institute of Applied Science within the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Fiji, hosted the “Regional Sampling Training for Competent Authority for Health Certification.” This comprehensive training program aimed to strengthen the capabilities and competencies of Pacific Island Countries’ (PIC) Competent Authorities (CAs), which serve as focal points in accessing the EU market. The training was funded through the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) and was facilitated by the FFA market access team.

The need for such training has grown in response to the increasing interest among Pacific Island Countries to access the EU market. As demand for product safety compliance rises, the training emphasized the importance of health indicator sampling and product safety.

In a parallel effort, the Tuvalu Department of Fisheries welcomed its Competent Authority Technical Officer on August 25th, 2023. This strategic appointment is a crucial step towards achieving Tuvalu’s goal of gaining access to the EU market. The move aligns with the long-discussed interest of Tuvalu’s fishing industry, which consists of Tuvalu-flagged vessels, to expand its market opportunities.

The Competent Authority Technical Officer was officially recruited in June and officially started work on August 25th, 2023. The program is funded by New Zealand under the Tuvalu Fisheries Support Programme Phase 2 (TFSP2). The recruitment of the Competent Authority Technical Officer is a clear indication of Tuvalu’s commitment to fostering cooperation between the private sector and public enterprises. This collaboration is seen as a vital catalyst for accessing international markets.

The Tuvalu Competent Authority’s establishment is a response to the EU’s stringent regulations, particularly the recently enacted Food Safety (Fishery Products) Regulation 2022. Under EU rules, exporting commodities to its member countries necessitates the establishment of a Competent Authority in the exporting nation to provide official assurance of product safety.

These developments come as international markets increasingly require Competent Authority endorsement for fish and fishery products exported to them, with the EU, China, New Zealand, and even the United States recognizing the importance of Competent Authorities.

The Tuvalu Department of Fisheries has taken proactive steps to strengthen its position in the global marketplace, with the potential to significantly enhance government revenue and, consequently, impact the social and economic well-being of the Tuvalu population.

This ambitious move signifies Tuvalu’s commitment to navigating the complex landscape of international trade while seizing the opportunities that lie ahead. As the country positions itself for EU market access, it opens doors to greater economic stability and prosperity for its people.

Tuvalu Fisheries Laws and Relevant Judgements

Matelina Stuart  Legislation  , ,

Tuvalu-crestLaws, Regulations and other Instruments applying to Fisheries in Tuvalu:

Descriptions & Explanatory Notes:

The legal system and rules in Tuvalu with respect to fishing activities, including fishing laws, fisheries acts, decrees and administrative regulations concerning fishing activities and fisheries, relevant legal provisions on infringements, relevant customs procedures, relevant tax provisions etc.

The Marine Resources Act & Amendment is the main law dealing with fisheries in Tuvalu – this copy amalgamates the two earlier documents.

The main features of the 2006 Act are:

  • Establishing the objective of ensuring the long-term conservation and sustainable use of the living marine resources for the benefit of the people of Tuvalu.
  • The Minister responsible for fisheries has the authority for the conservation, management, development and sustainable use of the living marine resources in the EEZ of Tuvalu;
  • The Minister must take into account 15 stated principles and measures in the conservation, management, and development of fisheries;
  • The Minister has the power to administer fisheries and make regulations as needed;
  • The Minister may appoint in writing a fisheries officer and such other officials as needed to discharge fisheries-related functions;
  • The Minister may declare that a fishery important to the national interest is a “designated fishery”;
  • The Fisheries Officer shall prepare a management plan for each designated fishery;
  • Requirements for each fisheries management plan are specified;
  • All vessels engaged in fishing must have a valid/applicable permit or a valid/ applicable license under a multilateral access agreement in accordance with the Act;
  • The transhipment of fish in the Tuvalu EEZ is regulated;
  • The requirements for a Tuvalu fishing vessel operating outside of Tuvalu waters are given.

The Marine Resources (Amendment) Act 2012 implements a number of changes to the principal act which are intended to ensure that Tuvalu’s international, regional and national rights and responsibilities in relation to fisheries conservation, management and development are accommodated. The Amendment significantly increased the level of penalties for various types of offences under the Act.

The two regulations under the Marine Resources Act: the Fisheries (Vessel Monitoring System) Regulations (2000) which require the use of automatic location coordinators by commercial fishing vessels operating in Tuvalu waters; and the Conservation and Management Measures (PNA Third Implementing Arrangement) Regulations 2009 contain provisions for the implementation of a number of measures agreed by PNA and the Vessel Monitoring System Regulation.

In order to implement WCPFC management measures and resolutions, the Fisheries Department has developed a template access agreement as an effective and efficient way of implementing conservation and management measures adopted. This is an appropriate approach in Tuvalu because virtually all the fishing activity affected is conducted by foreign industrial fishing vessels. Domestic small-scale tuna fishing takes place entirely within the territorial sea and is not subject to WCPFC management measures.

The Maritime Zones Act (2012) repealed the earlier Marine Zones (Declaration) Act of 1993 and provides the framework for establishing the following maritime zones in Tuvalu;

  • Declaration of Archipelagic Baselines 2012 (results in an archipelago comprising Nukufetau, Funafuti and Nukulaelae)
  • Declaration of Territorial Sea Baselines 2012
  • Declaration of the Outer Limits of the Territorial Sea 2012
  • Declaration of the Outer Limits of the Exclusive Economic Zone 2012
  • Declaration of the Outer Limits of the Continental Shelf 2012

The Falekaupule Act 1997 (revised 2000), which empowers Kaupule (island councils) to ‘provide for the improvement and control of fishing and related industries in accordance with the Fisheries Act and ‘to prohibit, restrict or regulate the hunting, capture, killing or sale of animals, reptiles, birds or fish in accordance with the Wildlife Conservation Act’: and the Funafuti Conservation Area Order (1999), promulgated under the Conservation Areas Act of 1999.

Tuvalu Fisheries Department hosts successful training program to boost marine conservation efforts

Matelina Stuart  Admin, Coastal  , , , ,

Tuvalu – In a significant step towards strengthening marine conservation efforts, the Tuvalu Fisheries Department recently organized an extensive diving training program aimed at equipping 11 local divers, 8 Fisheries officer, 2 officers from the Kaupule Funafuti and an officer from the Marine & Port services Department.

The training program spanned over a week and was conducted in collaboration with seasoned diving instructor and environmental expert, Mr Greg Buxton of Suva Scuba in Fiji.

The training involved theory work in the classroom and at home with a final exam, followed by four days of open-water training beginning in shallow depths and progressing to a final dive at 18 meters on a wreck in the lagoon using the new Fisheries research vessel, Manaui II.

“Fisheries work is essential to Tuvalu’s economy,” the chief instructor of Suva Scuba remarked. To achieve that, it is essential to keep track of the condition of the fish and reefs. SCUBA diving is a crucial monitoring tool, thus it’s crucial that divers receive the right training to keep them safe. He continued, “We hope to continue the training program in the future to broaden the divers’ scope and elevate them to the status of internationally recognized Scientific Divers.”

The LMMA Fisheries Officer, Mr. Lavata Nivaga, said, “I find this scuba diving training interesting. By fusing my passion of the sea with my newly acquired diving abilities, which now directly support the preservation and protection of Tuvalu’s marine ecosystem. He further stated that he hoped to receive advanced scuba training in the future.

The success of the diving training program marks a positive stride in Tuvalu’s ongoing efforts to address environmental challenges and climate change impacts on its vulnerable coastal regions. With these newly trained divers, the island nation is better positioned to survey marine habitats, detect any potential threats, and foster a culture of sustainability among its citizens.

As the training concluded, participants expressed their excitement and determination to apply their newfound knowledge for the betterment of Tuvalu’s marine heritage. The Tuvalu Fisheries Department plans to conduct regular follow-up trainings and continued engagement with the trained divers, ensuring their efforts contribute to the long-term protection of the nation’s marine resources.

INVITATION FOR QUOTATION

Matelina Stuart  Admin, Operations & Development  , , , ,

The TFSP2 project wishes to buy the following sea safety equipment for the Fisheries Grab Bag Programme:

50 ACR ResQlink PLBs

84 Cobra 500 handheld VHF radios

57 Garmin GPS73 Hand Held GPS

For supply by DHL to Funafuti, Tuvalu.

For further information please Click on the provided link to download the attached request for quotes: RFQ – Sea Safety Equipment 2.pdf

Responses before 16.30 on 14th July 2023 please

Tuvalu Fisheries on the move to establish the Tuvalu Fisheries Authority

Matelina Stuart  Admin  , , , , , , , ,

In the last three weeks, six fisheries officers visited each of Tuvalu’s outer islands to speak with the local populations about the proposed Tuvalu Fisheries Authority Bill, which would govern the management and future development of the marine resources in our nation.

The Manaui II, a department research vessel, carried the six-person team. The open community gathering with representatives from each island was followed by a session with Kaupule members to report the outcomes and get their opinions. Samasoni Finikaso, the director of fisheries, served as the team’s leader.

More than 60 attendees who spoke at the meetings, representing each of the eight islands, expressed support for the notion of turning the Tuvalu Fisheries Department into an Authority. Additionally, they added their recommendations to the Authority Bill in accordance with the discussion’s records and findings.

Cabinet decided to adopt the Fisheries Authority model after deliberating a High-Level Options Paper (HLOP) on Tuvalu’s future fisheries governance arrangements in January 2022. The proposed Authority’s scope and structure were reviewed by Cabinet in November 2022, and the Ministry was given the go-ahead to start preparing a stand-alone Bill to form the Authority.

A draft of the Bill has been created and sent to Cabinet for review. Cabinet recommended at their meeting in April that a nationwide survey be conducted before submitting this Bill for the July session of Parliament for its first reading.