5 Dec 2011

Public comment on American Samoa sanctuary to clear up misconceptions

2:53 pm on 5 December 2011

The deputy superintendent of American Samoa's Fagatele National Marine sanctuary says not all sites will be closed off to fishing if the reserve is expanded.

Kevin Grant says a common argument against the proposal to extend the sanctuary is that it will reduce fishing grounds.

But he says this is a misconception which he hopes will be cleared up during a period allowing public comment.

"I have heard it characterised as we are taking away everyone's right to feed their families, and I hope people don't really see it that way. The entire purpose for this public comment period is so that we can hear from the public whether or not we got it right or wrong and more importantly how we can improve upon our proposal."

The deputy superintendent of Fagatele National Marine sanctuary, Kevin Grant.

The comment period for the sanctuary expansion proposal will last until the end of the first week of the new year.