EU officially blacklisted Belize for Illegal Fishing

Months after the government assumed control of Belize International Services Limited which managed IMMARBE, the news is not good tonight for the now government-owned company.  In June this year, the government said it was taking over BISL because of allegations of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing on the high seas by foreign-owned Belize-flagged vessels. But tonight, the E.U. is imposing stiff penalties given what it describes as the critical state of many fish stock and it has officially blacklisted Belize. Along with Cambodia and Guinea , Belize is also facing sanctions by the European Commission for illegal fishing.  In addressing the media today, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, Maria Damanaki, said the fight against illegal fishing is being stepped up since the three countries are refusing to rein in the unlawful practice.  A number of environmental groups have applauded the decision, including the Pew Charitable Trusts, an independent non-profit NGO concerned with the environment, human services, as well as economic policies.  According to the European Union, illegal and unregulated fisheries account for fifteen percent of the total value of catches.  That figure is estimated to be thirteen and a half billion dollars annually.  News Five attempted to seek comment from the International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize, but we were told that they are in the process of preparing a press release.