American Samoa's Governor has defended his government's position in voting against Western Pacific Fisheries Management Council recommendations on a large vessel Prohibited Area.
Lolo Moliga said the government would maintain its position unless the council back down from moves to allow long liners to fish within 12 miles from shore in local waters.
The council had appealed a federal court ruling which reversed the rule instigated by the Council to allow long liners to fish within those limits
Lolo wants waters close to American Samoa's shores to be preserved for local fishermen.
He said research shows there's a chance that the east and south bank may be overfished, therefore the territory must act to prevent any further loss of fertile fishing grounds to large vessels.
Photo: RNZI / Monica Miller
