DRAFT
OUTLINE SAP II PROJECT:
NATIONAL PROJECT PREPARATION REPORTS

Fiji
Foreword
This brief report was prepared by Ian Cartwright and Seremaia Tuqiri during a visit to
Suva from 21 to 25 June 2004. It aims to assemble information relating to Fiji
necessary for the preparation of the GEF SAP II Project.
The main aims of the report are to:
· make an assessment of the implications of the WCPF Convention for Fiji;
· identify possible activities to support implementation by Fiji of the WCPF
Convention;
· make an analysis of the incremental costs to Fiji of activities related to the
Convention;
· undertake an analysis of stakeholders in Fiji with interests in the regional
oceanic fisheries resources;
· identify relevant consultative mechanisms in Fiji for the GEF SAP II Project;
and
· collect information relating to available indicators of performance in areas
related to the WCPF Convention and to the financial sustainability of Fiji's
participation in the Commission and implementation of the WCPF
Convention.
The report is based on available published information and information provided to
the mission by the stakeholders listed in Annex 3.

1.
Background
1.1
Status of Oceanic Fisheries
Fiji has an EEZ of 1.29million km2, which supports a substantial domestic tuna
fishing industry. Foreign fishing has occurred in Fijian waters since the early 1950s.
Domestic fisheries started with pole and line ventures in the mid 70's and continued
until the 1990s when low prices and relatively high costs made this form of fishing
largely uneconomic. Taiwanese and Korean longline activity, primarily targeting
albacore, increased in the 1980s, with substantial growth of the domestic longline
fleet occurring over the last 10 years. In the last five years, the numbers of domestic
longliners has gone from 43 to 101 (2003). As at June 2004, 84 longline vessels are
fishing in Fiji's EEZ, of which 57 have full licenses, the balance operating on
provisional licenses.
Matching the growth in effort, catches by the domestic fleet have increased from
around 5,000 tonnes in 1998 to an all time high in 2002 of 16,472 tonnes, of which
12,800 tonnes (74%) was taken in the Fijian EEZ. Environmental factors and adverse
economic conditions led to a reduction in catches in 2003 to 11,000 tonnes, of which
7,400 tonnes was caught in the EEZ.

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The value of the Fijian tuna catch is estimated at FJ$200 million1 (2003) with exports
worth approximately FJ$120 million. This makes tuna fishing one of Fiji's major
industries, ranking third behind tourism and sugar. The domestic tuna industry in Fiji
in 2002 accounted for some 900 jobs on vessels, with a further 1,500 employed in
shore-based facilities.
A significant volume of tuna is transhipped at ports in Fiji by foreign vessels, and in
particular Taiwanese longliners (88% of total transhipments in 2002). Other minor
transhipments include those by China, Vanuatu and Japan. In 2002 a total of around
11,300 tonnes of tuna and related species was recorded as being offloaded, around
10,500 tonnes (93%) of which was albacore. The PAFCO cannery in Levuka
processes much of the albacore, and produced around 12,600 tonnes of loins and
418,766 cases of tuna in 2002, primarily for export.
Fiji exports most of its tuna catch to Japan and America, these two markets receiving
57% and 41% of Fiji's tuna catch respectively in 2002. In the same year, 12,582
tonnes of frozen tuna was exported and 3,630 tonnes exported unfrozen for the
sashimi market.
1.2
Oceanic Fisheries Management
The objective of the Fiji Tuna Development and Management Plan is:
To provide for maximum sustainable benefits to Fiji from the resource.
The Plan states that this objective:
implies setting the harvest levels that will not damage the stock and putting
into practice a licensing policy that will ensure that maximum benefits from
fishing are enjoyed by Fijians.
It further stated that:
the Government has also taken the opportunity to use the Plan to help
improve the disparity within the segments of the Fijian population by
providing preferential criteria for Indigenous Fijians to have access to
licenses consistent with the aims of the Government through the Social
Justice Act.
Commercial tuna fishing is now focused on longline operations. The longline fishery
is managed under a system of catch and effort limits with an overall TAC for
yellowfin, bigeye and albacore of 15,000 tonnes, and a limit on the number of
longline vessel licenses of 110. Of these 110 licenses, 60 are open licenses, 25 are
reserved for indigenous Fijians and 25 for vessels associated with processors.
Licenses are issued annually.
The area between internal waters and the shoreward boundary of archipelagic waters
is closed to vessels over 20 metres and those owned by non-indigenous Fijians. All
vessels using `commercial' fishing gear i.e. longline, purse seine, pole and line
require a license, irrespective of length. There is a proposal currently before Cabinet
that the area of archipelagic waters be reserved for indigenous interests.

1.3
Oceanic Fisheries Institutional Arrangements

1 US1.00 = FJ$1.77

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DRAFT
The institutional structure of the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests is in the process of
structural change. A National Fisheries Authority has been proposed under the new
Fisheries Bill, which is with Cabinet. Currently the Oceanic Fisheries Management
Services Division (OFMSD) of the Fisheries Department is responsible for oceanic
fisheries management. The Fisheries Department has a total staff of 188, of which 36
are in the OFSMD. Of these 36 posts, only two are established, with the balance
employed as project staff. One SPC funded contract officer is also employed by the
Division, using EU funding. The Fisheries Department has an annual operating
budget of FJ$5.85 million. The OFMSD, with the exception of two core-funded
established posts, is funded entirely from a trust fund from that portion of the license
fees not paid to government. The OFMSD has five activity areas: Administration,
Information Technology, Licensing and Enforcement, Observers, and Offshore Tuna
Data Analysis. While oceanic fisheries are a high priority within the Fisheries
Department, the OFMSD budget of F$490,000 is only around 12% of the total
Fisheries Department budget.
The main government agencies involved in oceanic fisheries are the:
· Office of the Solicitor General, which provides legal advice, drafts legislation
and attends meetings as legal advisors
· Navy Division of the Fiji Military Forces, which undertakes surveillance and
enforcement duties using three ocean-going patrol boats and two support vessels;
· Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade which is active in the
international aspects of fisheries policy, including work related to the WCPF
Convention and other regional and international aspects of fisheries affairs;
· Fiji Police Force, which in collaboration with the Office of the Director of Public
Prosecutions is responsible for prosecutions and enforcement.
· Department of Environment which has interests in respect of marine
conservation and sustainability issues, including turtles and other by-catch.
Fisheries policy is largely driven by the Fisheries Department. Consultation with
government departments and other stakeholders (including industry and NGOs) on
policy matters is dealt with through:
· an industry-based body, the Offshore Tuna Council2, whose membership
comprises all Fiji License holders, those owning fish processing and
packaging factories and representatives of government; and
· various ad-hoc committee processes, called to consult on specific issues, e.g.
the review of the Tuna Management Plan.
Consultation with government departments on licensing and project matters occurs
through two specific committees:
The Licensing Committee ­ responsible for making recommendations on all license
applications for oceanic fisheries in Fiji. Cabinet appoints members of the Committee
which comprise the CEO Fisheries and Forests, CEO Foreign Affairs and External
Trade, CEO Home Affairs and Immigration and the Director of Fisheries. A large
number of co-opted members also sit on the committee, including those from the line
Ministries outlined above. There is no industry or environmental NGO participation.

2 Currently the Offshore Tuna Council meets very infrequently.

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Application for licenses by fishing operators, including those involved in joint-
ventures with local partners, are increasingly coming under closer scrutiny.
The Project Committee- responsible for considering all project proposals relating to
fisheries in coastal and oceanic waters, e.g. foreign investment in oceanic fisheries.
Membership comprises the Deputy Director of Fisheries, Principal Fisheries Officer
(Research) and the Principal Fisheries Officer/Project Officer whose area is being
applied for.
The Department of Environment is responsible for broader aspects of environmental
management, including marine pollution.
1.4
Donor Involvement
The major ongoing donor involvement is the provision of three Pacific Patrol Craft
and associated training and logistical support by the Australian Defence Force. A
range of donors contribute to the regional programmes of oceanic fisheries assistance
provided by FFA and SPC that are utilised by Fiji on a regular basis.
1.5
Other Oceanic Fisheries Management Issues
Other significant oceanic fisheries management issues that arose during the mission to
Fiji include:
· fleet mobility with an increasing number of Fiji-based vessels holding
licenses to multiple zones and in particular Vanuatu and Tuvalu;
· increasing cooperation with neighbouring states on such matters as
compliance, and data exchange;
· increasing transhipments from DWFN vessels, increasing port state
responsibilities and associated costs;
· concern over the impact of purse seine fishing on the longline fishery;
· licensing arrangements and qualifying criteria for longline vessels remain
a source of ongoing controversy;
· determining optimum fleet size and/or catch to ensure both economic and
biological sustainability; and
· the need to differentiate between environmental and fishery driven effects
on catch rates.

2.
Fiji and the WCPF Convention
2.1
Overview
Fiji's primary aims in the MHLC and PrepCon process have been:
· to achieve the overall conservation of tuna resources within the WCPO, with
particular concern over the need to control capacity in the purse seine sector, due
to the flow-on impacts on bigeye and yellowfin tuna targeted by the longline
fishery;
· to derive an equitable share for Fiji of the overall TAC for the WCPO;
· to create a framework that will encourage the development of domestic fishing
industries; and

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· to establish a cost-effective management framework and Commission that
maximises the use of current regional arrangements, and is not a burden on
Pacific Island Countries.
Major short term areas of implications for Fiji as a Member of the Commission and a
Party to the WCPF Convention are seen as follows:
· need to update legislation to comply with the requirements of the WCPF
Convention;
· need to improve flag state control, including the establishment of a process to
authorise Fijian flagged vessels fishing on the high seas, and to better control Fiji
flagged vessels fishing in the EEZs of other FFA states;
· requirement to improve dockside monitoring processes and coverage to deal with
increasing transhipments and use of Fiji as a base by DWFN;
· need to improve the pattern of participation and understanding by the private
sector in the processes of the Commission.
Overall, Fiji has taken steps to implement an oceanic fisheries management
framework but will need to update and strengthen it to respond to requirements
associated with the Convention.

2.2
Implications of the Convention
2.2.1 Legal
The 1972 Fisheries Act requires substantial revision to be compatible with the
requirements of recent regional and international instruments, including the UN Fish
Stocks Agreement and WCPF Convention. A Bill has been before Cabinet dealing
with a comprehensive suite of fisheries management arrangements covering all
aspects of Fisheries, including oceanic fisheries. This Bill is now back with Fisheries
for modification and will require updating to take account of WCPF Convention
requirements.
Instrument
Status
WCPF Convention
Ratified
UN Convention on the Law of the Sea
Ratified
UN Fish Stocks Agreement
Ratified
Driftnet Convention
Ratified
Convention on Biological Diversity
Ratified
FAO Code of Conduct
Accepted
FAO Compliance Agreement
Endorsed
FAO International Plans of Action
Endorsed, not yet implemented
WSSD Fisheries Targets
Not formally adopted
FFA Minimum Terms and Conditions
Implemented


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While there is substantial legal expertise available in the Office of the Solicitor
General (40 legal staff), no one legal specialist is assigned to Fisheries. Both the
Office of the Solicitor General and the Fisheries Department are of the opinion that
substantial benefits would be gained by basing a lawyer in Fisheries, as is the case
with a number of other Ministries.
There is currently an inadequate understanding of legal commitments under the
Convention, including flag state obligations and links with practical fisheries
management initiatives, including improved compliance.
There is a need to improve the harmonisation of legislation between the Fisheries Act
and associated legislation including that relating to the environment.
2.2.2 Policy/Institutional
The oceanic fisheries management framework in Fiji is in transition, awaiting the
passing of the new Fisheries Act and the creation of the Fiji Islands National
Fisheries Authority (FINFA). The structure of FINFA needs to be formalised as a
matter of priority. In the meantime, the OFMSD is constrained in its activities by the
level of funding it receives under current cost recovery arrangements.
Fiji's participation in the WCPF Commission will continue to be led by the Ministry
for Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests. Consultation with
stakeholders will be undertaken on an ad-hoc basis until alternative consultative
processes are developed. Clear national positions on regional and multilateral issues
including a sub-regional approach to the management of longline fishing and
allocation have yet to be developed. Fiji is interested in using the bio-economic model
to inform policy decisions the national/sub-regional issues, such as the optimum
levels of purse seine and longline catches.
The cost of financial contributions for Fiji to the WCPF commission is expected to be
in the range of US$8-12,000 per year once the Commission is fully established,
although it may be more in the first year or two if major fishing states delay
becoming Members of the Commission. OFMSD intends to increase income by
accessing licence fee revenues. A proposal is with Cabinet that when approved , will
result in additional income from vessels based and landing in Fiji but not fishing in
Fiji's EEZ (license fees of @F$2,500 per vessel, and per visit fees for DWFN and
other vessels landing in Fiji (@F$200 per visit).
2.2.3 Compliance
Compliance and enforcement activities are carried out by the Naval Division through
the operation of three ocean-going patrol vessels, the Fiji Police Force, the
Department of Fisheries, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution. Naval
officers have been given Fisheries boarding powers to board vessels. A good database
of registered vessels and gear characteristics is kept with the Department of Fisheries.
There is recognition of the increasing mobility of fishing fleets and the associated
compliance issues. To deal with such issues Fiji has entered into collaborative
compliance arrangements with Vanuatu and Tuvalu and there are plans to do the same
with the Solomon Islands. The use of the Niue Treaty to formalise these arrangements
is under consideration.
The capacity of Navy staff in relation to understanding and implementation of
fisheries-associated legal instruments requires strengthening.

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There is support for a standardised (region wide) format for dockside boarding
procedures and associated training.
The FFA VMS facility is managed by the Naval Division. While it is operational
(there should be a daily download), regular technical problems have been
experienced. The latest problem rendered the VMS system ineffective for 3 weeks. A
minimum criterion imposed on all fishing vessels is that they must be `seen' as target
on the VMS system before they can be licensed to fish in Fiji waters. Fiji considers
that there is a need to avoid duplication of VMS systems (between the FFA and
Commission VMS systems).
The efficiency in monitoring and surveillance activities is hampered by tight
operational budget for the Naval Division. With all five active vessels at sea (3 patrol
craft and 2 support vessels) there is only sufficient funding to cover 16 days per year
of effective surveillance.
Given the current funding constraints and high level of activity in Fiji's EEZ, vessel
boarding and inspection on the high seas by Fiji patrol boats is not expected to be
undertaken in the immediate future. An authorisation process to enable high seas
boarding and inspection is yet to be developed, although the Fisheries Act allows for
this.

2.2.4 Monitoring
Fiji has a well developed system of data collection, verification and analysis of catch
and effort data. It also has the capability to log and generate data before it
transmission to SPC for review. This work has been well supported by SPC under the
IW SAP Project, and by the EU-Procfish Project. A database has been set up
containing Fiji's catch and effort data by species, gear, and fleet type that will meet
the requirements of the Commission. There is now a desire to move towards training
programmers and data analysts to do more detailed in-country analysis of both
national and regional fisheries data
While most vessel landings are well monitored ensuring a high level of port sampling
coverage, some data gaps from landings still exist.
An onboard observer programme aimed at the domestic longline fleet is in place, with
an approximate observer coverage of 20%. A common terms of reference (TOR) has
been agreed to with Vanuatu (see Compliance section) to qualify Fiji Observers to
become Vanuatu Observers, once multi-licensed vessels enter Vanuatu waters. This
cross-accreditation is expected to be an on going requirement.
Tuna tagging research was supported and a preference expressed for a tagging
programme to be done every 5 years or so, with the objective of creating
understanding of both local movement and regional mobility of tuna.
2.2.5 Scientific Analysis
Scientific Analysis
Fiji, with software and training assistance provided by SPC, has now developed a
good data collection and analysis capability. This year (2004) for the first time Fiji
will be preparing their annual SCTB data report unaided, with SPC providing final
checking of data and calculations. Fiji is capable of providing some data analysis,

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DRAFT
including spatially disaggregated catch and effort data, in support of the management
process.
The trend whereby recent stock assessment advice provided by SPC has increasingly
focused on the impact of fishing on stocks in the Fiji EEZ has been welcomed by all
stakeholders. While progress is acknowledged, there is considered to be a need
expand this activity and thereby provide a greater understanding of the relative
impacts of fishing and environmental factors on tuna stocks.
Fiji is keen to build on the progress made with national data collection and analysis,
and wishes to progress towards gaining a national capability to interpret regional
stock assessment data. There is also a requirement to better understand and monitor
the relationship between long line and purse seine fisheries.
Ecosystem analysis
Tuna by-catch is currently not considered to be an issue for Fiji, but is recognised as
an emerging issue with the potential to impact exports. Under current practises, and
using the SPC definitions, there is virtually no longline by-catch, with retained non-
target species being landed as by-product and finding a ready market. Data on by-
catch taken within the EEZ is generally sketchy and work to date on by-catch issues
has been minimal. There is a need to improve the understanding of the ecosystem-
based management aspects of the Convention and how these can be practically
addressed by Pacific Island countries.
Large scale oceanographic changes undoubtedly have impacts on Fiji's oceanic
fisheries however there is little capacity to monitor and analyse large scale impacts, or
to separate these impacts from the impacts of fishing. Analysis conducted though the
Oceanic Fisheries Programme of the SPC is providing greater understanding of the
local situation with respect to large scale ENSO-driven changes.
3.
Potential Contribution of SAP II Project
Potential areas in which the SAP II Project could contribute to assisting Fiji in the
implementation of national activities related to the WCPF Convention are summarised
in the table below.
Activity
Incremental Actions
Possible Interventions
Legal


Revise Legal
Provide legal advice in support of
Legal review
framework
review of Fisheries Act
Support Commission
Provide legal input into national
Training for dedicated fisheries legal
participation
positions
officer
Implement
Understand legal implications
Regional Legal Workshops
Commission decisions
Policy


Participate in the
Meet commission financial
Institutional Strengthening
Commission and new
contributions
Regional Fisheries Management
regional management
Additional Commission and FFA
Training/Consultations
arrangements
meeting participation

Develop regional and national
Workshops on alternative fisheries
vision for future management
management strategies
arrangements

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Strengthen In-Zone
Develop defensible and compatible
Regular (biennial) management plan
Management/ Provide
national reference points
review
data to the
Commission
Compliance


Increase IUU
Increase understanding and
Technical assistance and training to
deterrence in-zone
implementation of legal
on national and regional compliance
instruments
implications of Convention
Support for collaborative
MCS working groups at regional and
surveillance operations.
sub-regional levels, with technical
support
Implement high seas authorisation
process

Monitoring


Improve at-sea data
Expand Observer Programme
Ongoing assistance from SPC with
training and overall monitoring
strategy
Improve catch
Expand Port Sampling Programme
Capacity building focussing on
composition data
training programmers and data
analysts
Increase standardisation of forms
and procedures

Science


Improve national
Strengthen national capacity to
Ongoing support from SPC
statistical info
analyse national data
Training for national scientific staff
Provide catch/effort
Strengthen national capacity to
to interpret stock assessments and
estimates to the
interpret regional analyses
oceanographic information
Commission



Improve
Enhanced capacity to interpret
Training for national scientific staff
understanding of
fishing vs environmentally driven
to interpret stock assessments and
oceanic resources and
changes to the fishery, and
oceanographic information
ecosystem
oceanographic information

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ANNEXES
Annex 1
Incremental Cost/Co-financing Analysis
Annex 2
Stakeholder Inventory and Analysis (including consultative mechanism
inventory)
Annex 3
Record of Stakeholder Consultation
Annex 4
Indicator Availability
Annex 5
Sustainability Analysis

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Annex 1
Incremental Cost/Co-financing Analysis
Summary
National Funding
Total 2005-2009
Total 2005-2009
Theme
Baseline
Incremental

(FJ$ `000)
1 Law
199
175
2 Policy/Management
1088
465
3 Compliance
3270
875
4 Monitoring
625
400
5 Science
200
150
Total
5382
2065


Base Data
2004
2004
Institution
Programme
Theme
%OFM
OFM
Budget
Budget
Fisheries
Executive Mgmt Policy/Mgmt
491
25%
122.8
Dept
Offshore
Monitoring
170
100%
170.0
OFMSD
Fisheries
OFMSD
Data Anal.
Science
50
100%
50.0
OFMSD
Reg&Enforce
Compliance
110
100%
110.0
Navy
P. Boat Ops
Compliance
1040
60%
624.0
For Aff
Poltical/Treaties Policy/Mgmt
14490
1%
144.9
S.G.

Law
4480
1%
44.8






Total




1266.5

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Annex 1
Incremental Cost/Co-financing Analysis


Details


2004
2004
2004
2005-
Non-
Total
Theme
Institution
Programme
OFM
WCPF
2009
New WCPF Increment
WCPF
Incr
budget Increment
Baseline
Baseline








2005
2006
2007
2008 2009 Total

1 Law
S.G.
Law
45
5
40
199
30
30
30
30
30
150
175
Executive
2 Policy/Mgmt
Fisheries D
123
20
103
514
38
38
38
38
38
190
290
Mgmt

For Affairs
Pacific
145
30
115
575
5
5
5
5
5
25
175
3 Compliance
OFMSD
Compliance
110
30
80
400
25
25
25
25
25
125
275

Navy
Compliance
624
50
574
2870
70
70
70
70
70
350
600
Offshore
4 Monitoring
OFMSD
170
45
125
625
35
35
35
35
35
175
400
Fisheries
Offshore
5 Science
OFMSD
50
10
40
200
20
20
20
20
20
100
150
Fisheries



1266
190
1076
5382
2228




1115
2065
Fiji has an extensive and active domestic fishing fleet, some vessels of which fish on the high seas and in the EEZs of other FFA members. While a number
of the future Commission and current regional obligations are now being met and funded, Fiji intends to improve performance in a number of additional
areas. These include updating legislation, improving licensing/authorisation arrangements and reducing in-zone IUU through increased compliance, including
through increased patrol boat activity. Current cost recovery arrangements are being extended, and the establishment of the Fiji Islands National Fisheries
Authority (FINFA) will provide additional funding resources.
Cofinancing cost estimates are based on:
Law: New fisheries legal post

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Policy/Management; Participation in the Commission; Commission financial contribution; Establishment of the Fiji Islands National Fisheries Authority
(FINFA) with expanded OFM functions financed by new cost recovery arrangement
Compliance: Costs of additional fisheries dedicated patrols
Monitoring: Expanded observer staff
Science: Establishment of the Fiji Islands National Fisheries Authority (FINFA) with expanded OFM functions financed by new cost recovery arrangement



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Annex 2
Stakeholder Inventory and Analysis (including consultative mechanism inventory)


Country:
Fiji
Date:

23rd June 2004
Data Recorder:
Seremaia Tuqiri E-mail: stuqiri@wwfpacific.org.fj





Stakeholder analysis and preliminary participation plan
Stakeholder
Representative / Post
Contact details
Description of
1st stakeholder
2nd stakeholder
Other

interests
(role in decision
(2-way flow of

Country Code (679)
(factors that
making)
information)
[Keep informed]
may influence
participation)
Department of Fisheries
Apolosi Turaganivalu
Ministry of Fisheries
National
X


Principal Fisheries
& Forests
fisheries
Officer
GPO Box 358, Suva
authority
Tel: 336 1122
Fax: 336 1184
Foreign Affairs &
Ross Ligairi
P.O. Box 2220
Foreign policy
X


External Trade
Deputy Permanent
Govt Buildings, Suva
and Treaty
Secretary (Political &
Tel: 330 9667
administration
Treaties)
Fax: 330 1741
and negotiation
Naval Division
Bradley Bower
Naval Division
Fisheries

X

Maritime Commander
Fiji Military Forces
compliance
GPO Box 102, Suva
Tel: 331 2585
Fax: 331 4783
Fiji Police Force
Kevueli
P.O. Box 239, Suva
Compliance and

X

Bulamainaivalu
Tel: 331 2999
enforcement
Asst. Commissioner of
Fax: 330 3199
Police (Operations)
Office of the Solicitor
Nainendra Nand
Office of the Attorney Drafting of

X

General
Solicitor General
General
legislation
P.O. Box 2213
Govt Buildings, Suva
Tel: 330 9866

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Fax: 330 5421
Fiji Trade and


Business Sector

X

Investment Board
Department of
Epeli Nasome
P.O. Box 2131
GEF Focal Point

X

Environment
Director of
Govt Buildings, Suva
Environment
Fiji
Tel: 331 1699
Fax: 331 2879
Fiji Islands Maritime
Director of Marine
P.O. Box 326, Suva
Vessel safety and

X

Safety Administration
Tel: 331 5266
registration
(FIMSA)
Fax: 330 3251
Environmental NGOs
Oceans
-
Conservation

X

e.g. Greenpeace and
Campaigner/Fisheries
interests
WWF
Conservaton Officer
The University of the
Leon Zann

Training and
South Pacific
Professor of Marine
-
education

X
Studies
providor
zann_l@usp.ac.fj
Vessel Operators

-
Industry
X


Fish Processing plant


-
Industry
X

operators
General Public

-
Socio-economic


X



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Inventory of Project-related national consultative mechanisms

Consultative
Parent/host body
Representative/contact
Area(s) of
Frequency of
Members and affiliations
body
details
interest
meetings






1. Oceanic
Department of
CEO Fisheries & Forests
Looks at all
Ad hoc?
-
CEO Foreign Affairs & External Trade
Fisheries
Fisheries
(Chair)
licence

-
CEO Home Affairs & Immigration
Licensing
Min. of Fisheries &

applications for

-
Director of Fisheries
Committee
Forests
the oceanic
-
Fisheries Licensing Officer (Committee Secretary)


fisheries in Fiji


Co-opted Members

-
Solicitor General's Office
-
Fiji Navy
-
Fiji Islands Revenue & Customs Authority
(FIRCA) - Legal
-
Fiji Inland Revenue Services
-
Fiji Customs Services
-
Fiji Islands Trade & Investment Bureau
-
Reserve Bank of Fiji
-
Fiji Islands Maritime Safety Administration
(FIMSA)
-
Immigration Department
-
Deputy Director of Fisheries
-
Principal Fisheries Officer (Management Services)

-
Principal Fisheries Officer (Research)
-
Principal Fisheries Officer or Project Officer whose
area is being applied for
-
Fisheries Licensing Officer (Committee Secretary)


2. Fisheries
Department of
Deputy Director of
Looks at all
Ad hoc
All Fiji licence holders and those owning fish
Project
Fisheries
Fisheries (Chair)
project proposals

processing and packaging factories
Committee

relating to
fisheries in the
oceanic and
coastal waters

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3. Fiji Islands
Industry
Current acting Chair is Mr
Set up with the
Ad hoc at the

Offshore
David Lucas, Solander
intention of
present time
Fisheries Council
(Pacific) Ltd.
providing a

cohesive and
(presently the
consultative
FIOFC is a lose
forum specifically
set up with no
for industry and
code of conduct
government.
or articles of

association)


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Annex 3 ­ Record of Stakeholder Consultation
GEF SAP II Country Mission ­ FIJI
PRIMARY STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION
Wednesday, 23rd June 2004
Marine Studies Programme
The University of the South Pacific

Participant List:
Jone Amoe, Project Officer (OTP), Department of Fisheries; Filipe Viala, National Fisheries
Observer Coordinator, Department of Fisheries; Neomai Ravitu, Project Officer, Department of
Fisheries, Lt. Bradley Bower, Maritime Commander, Republic of Fiji Navy; Andrew Hughes,
Commissioner of Police, Fiji Police; Kevueli Bulamainaivalu, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Fiji.
Police; Jonasa Leakai, Staff Officer, Central Police Station, Fiji Police; Ross Ligairi, Deputy
Permanent Secretary (Political & Treaties), Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade; Seruwaia Sikivou,
Statistician, Fiji Islands Bureau of Statistics; Peniasi Kunatuba, Consultant, Agape Fishing Company;
Josateki Nawalowalo, Director, Seafresh (Fiji) Ltd; Aneil Sami, Seafresh (Fiji) Ltd; Sivoki
Matananiu; Robert Stone, Fisheries Consultant; Lisa Stone, The Gourmet Food Company; David
Lucas, Solander Pacific Ltd; Russel Dunham, Fiji Fish Co. Ltd.; Joni Nawalowalo, Fisherman; Prof.
Leon Zann, Director, Marine Studies Programme, USP; Dr. Vina Ram Bidesi, Lecturer, Marine
Studies Programme, USP; Dr. Edward Anderson, Lecturer, Marine Studies Programme, USP; Pio
Manoa, Oceans Campaigner, Greenpeace; Lagi Toribau, Assistant Oceans Campaigner, Greenpeace;
Kesaia Tabunakawai; Regional Conservation Director, WWF South Pacific Programme (WWF-SPP);
Penina Solomona, Marine Officer, WWF SPP: Alice Heffernan, Researcher, WWF SPP; Etika
Rupeni, Fiji Country Programme Manager, WWF; Saimoni Tuilaucala (CHAIR), Acting Director,
Ministry of Fisheries & Forests: Apolosi Turaganivalu, (TECHNICAL ASSISTANT) Principal
Fisheries Officer, Department of Fisheries,; Ian Cartwright, Mission Consultant (International);
Seremaia Tuqiri, Mission Consultant (Regional).

The mission to Fiji held a primary stakeholder consultation after the public forum. It was held
at the USP Marine Studies Programme Lecture Theatre to discuss the purpose and
development of the SAP II project. There were a total of 28 participants on record.
Mr Ian Cartwright gave a presentation on GEF SAP II Project: Strengthening National
Fisheries Management (on the implementation of the new Western and Central Pacific
Fisheries Convention). Issues raised in the discussion were as follows:
· On authorisation to board on the high seas after 19th June 2004 ­ would this require
Commission licensing? It was noted that this was so. Australia had taken this stand.
· Regarding the perception that quota allocation could be increased based on catch history,
it was noted that the Commission would provide the forum to negotiate quota allocation.
It was further noted that there was a lot of pressure to try and get a share of the quota
allocation pie. The Commission must promptly deal with the allocation issue in order to
stabilise the industry. Allocation must also be agreed to by consensus.
· Economic efficiency/viability of the vessels needed to be considered as well, not just
biological sustainability. It was better to have a fewer fishing vessels and make a profit

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that to have a higher number and lose out. There was a need to push this at the
Commission level.
· Need to know and deal with differing objectives placed on oceanic fisheries by
respective Pacific Island countries (PICs). Concern was expressed with fishing
techniques employed by vessels fishing in other PICs, while others want to gain as much
as they could from their fishing licences. Tuna is shared stock ­ Fiji's fish stocks are
dictated by fishing vessels in surrounding EEZs
· Cost recovery should be attributable to fishing activity, and should be based on a
transparent model that both government and industry have both bought into.
· Need to be more informed about local stocks as this would enable countries to
responsibly decide what management options they need to take.
· Cost-effective compliance was going to be a challenge particularly with respect to
illegal, unidentified, and unreported (IUU) fishing. Presently there was barely any money
to cover maintenance, surveillance and enforcement.
· Participation in the design of national arrangements should include a broader
involvement of stakeholders.
· The WCPF Convention is a regional arrangement. Other countries in the region must
fully buy into regional arrangements. Fiji is developing its tuna management plan and is
working to make sure that there is political buy in.
Other consultations were held prior to and after the two meetings. These were with:
· Department of Fisheries
-
Apolosi Turaganivalu, Principal Fisheries Officer (MS)
-
Filipe Viala, National Fisheries Observer Coordinator
-
Jone Amoe, Project Officer (Oceanic Tuna Programme)
-
Anare Raiwalui
· Naval Division, Fiji Military Forces
-
Lt. Bradley Bower, Maritime Commander,
· Fiji Police Force
-
Mr Kevueli Bulamainaivalu Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations),
· Department of Environment
-
Mr Epeli Nasome, Director of Environment,
· Office of the Solicitor General
-
Mr Nainendra Nand, Solicitor General,
-
Mr Eliesa Tuiloma, Senior Legal Officer,
Courtesy calls were made to:
· Mr Mitieli Baleivanualala, CEO Ministry of Fisheries & Forests
· Mr Malakai Tuiloa, Deputy Director of Fisheries

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· Mr Cama Tuiloma Fiji, CEO Local Government, Squatter Settlement, & Environment
and GEF Focal Point.

GEF SAP II Country Mission ­ FIJI
PUBLIC FORUM
Wednesday, 23rd June 2004
Marine Studies Programme
The University of the South Pacific
Participant List

Filipe Viala, Department of Fisheries; Jone Amoe, Department of Fisheries; Neomai Ravitu,
Department of Fisheries; Louise Isimeli, Department of Fisheries; Timoci Koroi, Republic of Fiji
Navy; Esiteri Puamau, National Planning Office,;Ovini Ralulu, National Planning Office; Nemani
Mati, Prime Minister's Office; Akuila Ratu, Prime Minister's Office; S. Sanegar-Talemaisainiai,
Ministry of Information; Aneil Sami, SeaFresh (Fiji); Josateki Nawalowalo, SeaFresh (Fiji) Ltd.;
David Lucas, Solander Pacific Ltd.; Robert Stone, Fisheries Consultant; Lisa Stone, The Gourmet
Food Company; Jonacani Damuni, Captain, Longline fishing vessel; Joni Nawalowalo, Fisherman;
Lagi Toribau, Greenpeace; Pio Manoa, Greenpeace; Aliti Koroi; WWF Fiji Programme; Nicola
Thomson; WWF South Pacific Programme; Alice Heffernan, WWF South Pacific Programme,
Sophie Lubet, Embassy of France; Megan Streeter, Secretariat of the Pacific Community; Robin
Yarrow, USP Council; Paul Kausimae
USP; Dr Vina Ram Bidesi, Marine Studies Programme, USP; Iliapi Tuwai, Marine Studies
Programme, USP; Dr Edward Anderson, Marine Studies Programme, USP; Alan Resture, Institute of
Marine Resources, USP; Dr Sandra Tarte, History/Politics Department, USP; Dr Elise Huffer,
ADPAC Studies, USP; Tooti Tekinaiti, USP (student); Jacob Gala, USP (student); Stanley Wale, USP
(student); James Tafatu,USP (student); Fiona Indu; USP (student); Abraham L. Haiuasi, USP
(student); Philip L. Houlia, USP (student); Marie Pene
USP (student); Hubert Baselo, USP (student); Edward Danitofea, USP (student); Gabriel Victor
TitiliUSP (student); Mavis Depaune, USP (student); Monte Depaune, USP (student)
Haji Arumae; USP (student); John Talu, USP (student); Viliame Gabriel,USP Andy Johnston,
University of Melbourne; Alumeci, Fiji Sun; Samantha Rina, Fiji Sun; Verenaisi Raicola, The Fiji
Times; Timoci Vula, Fiji Daily Post; Samisoni Pareti, Islands Business Magazine, Matelita Ragogo,
AFP/Pacific Magazine; Seru Waqanikalou, FM96; Saimoni Tuilaucala (CHAIR), Ministry of
Fisheries & Forests); Apolosi Turaganivalu (TECHNICAL ASSISTANT),Department of Fisheries;
Ian Cartwright, GEF SAP II Country Mission Team; Seremaia Tuqiri, GEF SAP II Country Mission
Team.
The Mission to Fiji held a public forum prior to the stakeholder consultation, to create
awareness of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention and the tuna industry in
the Pacific Islands. The forum was held at the Marine Studies Programme, USP. Those
present included representatives from line ministries and departments, fishing industry,
regional institutions, undergraduate and post-graduate students, non-governmental
organisations (NGOs), and the media (refer to participant list above). The forum was chaired
by the Director (Corporate Services) of the Ministry of Fisheries & Forests who was also
serving as Acting Director Fisheries.
Mr Ian Cartwright gave a presentation on the Management of Oceanic Fisheries of the
Western and Central Pacific Ocean. Issues raised in the public forum were as follows:

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· Recent trends were not displaying much of a difference as in 2000. It raised the question
as to whether current capacity was too much.
· Fishing effort and vessel movement must be closely monitored particularly in situations
where inflatable fish aggregating devices (FADs) are deployed. Current management
systems may be lagging behind in dealing with this issue.
· States that are part of the Commission who have yet to sign and ratify must do so quickly.
Fiji (like the other Pacific Island countries that have signed and ratified) should not be
managing on its own a fishery whose target stock is trans-boundary in nature and
therefore requires trans-boundary management.
· `By-catch' may need to have a regional definition because true by-catch in the Pacific is
very small.
· The issue of allocation needs to be resolved as soon as possible


GEF SAP II Country Mission ­ FIJI

Annex 4 ­ Availability of National Indicators

Current Value, if easily
Indicator
Availability
available
1. Coverage of:


a) catch and effort logsheets: domestic fleet

Around 80%,
b) catch and effort logsheets: foreign fleet


c) port sampling


d) observers: domestic fleet

18%
2. Levels of budgets and staffing for these


programmes
3. Levels of fleet capacity and fishing effort


4. Catch of target species,


5. Levels of mortality of related species,

Not easily available
including by-catch and seabirds

Note: this analysis does not include a range of national indicators which are known to be
available for all countries such as status of legislation, undertaking of national reforms etc.

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Annex 5 - Sustainability Analysis

Annual Government Revenue from Licensing:
FJ$320,000



Annual In-Zone Catch Value: xxx
Annual Domestic Catch Value: xxx








Annual Production Value (including value of processing): =FJ$200 million
Expected Annual Commission Contributions: US$8,000 -12,000
Estimated Annual Government Incremental Costs: FJ$413,000



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