Fishing gear retrieved from Marine Reserves in Soufriere as authorities investigate illegal fishing activities

The Department of Fisheries has received reports of illegal fishing activities within marine reserves, especially in the Soufriere Marine Management Area (SMMA). Recently, the Department in collaboration with the Marine Police Unit conducted an exercise to retrieve fishing gear in various marine reserves in the SMMA. A total of one fishing net and two fish pots were retrieved from the Superman Flight and Turtle Reef marine reserves.

The Department wishes to remind fishers and the public that Section 22 (2a) of the Fisheries Act, Cap 7.15 of the Revised Laws of Saint Lucia states: any person who, in any marine reserve, without permission, fishes or attempts to fish, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000.

In an effort to ensure the survival of the marine animal and plant populations, persons are advised to avoid the following activities:
– fishing in marine reserves
– taking or destroying flora or fauna and other fish from marine reserves
– discharging or depositing of waste or any pollution in marine reserves
– construction or erection of any structure on or over any land or waters within the marine reserves.

The public is encouraged to report all fishing or other activities conducted in marine reserves to the Department of Fisheries at 468 4135, 468 4143 or the nearest police station.