FISHERIES STOOD BY HIS DECISION ON BECHE-DE-MER EXPORT LICENSE

The Minister of Fisheries, Honourable John Maneniaru has stood by his decision to approve the issuance of export license to Ontong Java Development Company.

Minister Maneniaru says, considering all factors after receiving the Prime Minister’s letter seeking reconsideration of his position, not to issue a license to the company.

Mr. Maneniaru says he took into account the factors raised by his officers and those raised by both the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.

Before making the decision, the Minister had asked the Licensing Committee to consider the company’s appeal application in the same manner as other applications who had appealed for reconsideration of their applications.

Mr. Maneniaru says, he exercised his power as provided for under the Fisheries Act and gave approval for the Director to issue the export licence.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Fisheries explains, the call made by the Leaders of The Opposition and The Independent Group, the PM’s letter to him provided him a room to reconsider his decision.

This he did and resulted in the issuance of the license.

He assured both leaders that he will lead as expected and invite both leaders to give him the support he needs to turn the fishery around for the benefit of our local people and for the rest of the country.

Minister Maneniaru further clarifies, the PM’s letter to him bore no marks of political interference.