Seventeen of the world's 22 albatross species are threatened with extinction, with longline fishing responsible for much of the problem.
A single tuna longline vessel can set more than 100 km of line, with 3000 hooks per day. Seabirds, especially albatrosses and petrels, are attracted to the baited hooks, but die in unsustainably high numbers as they get hooked when the baited hooks leave the vessel, and before they sink to their target depth.
We ask South Africa to reduce the incidental capture and death of albatrosses in longline fishing by using a new type of safe fishing gear.SOURCE:
http://www.rspb.org.uk/news/285178-new-birdfriendly-fishing-gear-lands-big-fishMr. Zaheer Fakir
Acting Deputry Director-General
Department of Environmental Affairs
Private Bag X 447
Pretoria - 0001
South Africa
Tel: + 27 12 310-3828
Fax: + 27 12 310 -3541
EMail: Zfakir@environment.gov.za, Zfakir21@gmail.com
Mrs. Nosipho Ngcaba
Director General
Department of Environmental Affairs
Private Bag X447
Pretoria - 0001
South Africa
Tel: + 27 12 310 3017
Fax: + 27 12 310 3541
EMail: Nngcaba@environment.gov.za
