By Pacific Island Times News Staff
The U.S. Coast Guard’s response to illegal activities around the waters of American Samoa leaves much to be desired, according to the territory’s delegate to the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council.
During the council’s meeting earlier this week, Nate Ilaoa said the Coast Guard’s efforts to protect American Samoa from illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and foreign incursions have “not been sufficient.”
In April, the USCG and the American Samoan government signed an “enhanced maritime law enforcement addendum” enhancing the Coast Guard’s authority to “conduct enforcement actions” within the territory’s exclusive economic zone.
According to an earlier press release from the USCG, the addendum complemented existing collaboration with Samoan law enforcement by enabling the local government to request vessel inspection and enforcement of the territory’s coastal regulations without a local officer onboard.
At Monday’s meeting, the fishery council recommended collaborating with USCG to develop a plan for providing assets and resources to America Samoa, while making certification courses more accessible to its citizens.
Rear Admiral Sean Regan, chief of USCG District 14, said he “appreciated” the region’s response and feedback, noting that his organization’s mission is to “protect those who serve on the sea, protect against threats emanating from the sea and protect the sea itself.”
Capt. Jennifer Conklin said the USCG’s Operation Blue Pacific initiative guaranteed the “permanent presence” of the U.S. government as “a trusted partner in enhancing the safety, security and prosperity of the region.”
Will Sword, the council’s chair, highlighted the group’s “commitment to incorporating Indigenous knowledge into fisheries management for the region.”
“It is important for the council to make a conscious effort to ensure equity in our work and recognize the existence and sovereignty of the indigenous people of the Western Pacific,” said Kitty Simonds, executive director.
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