MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands' closure of Illex season is official

Falkland Islands Fisheries Department announced Tuesday the early closure of the Illex season for conservation reasons beginning Wednesday April 13, at 08:00 hours.

Earlier this week Argentina adopted a similar decision meaning that Illex squid fishing is now banned in both EEZs.

"As advised on 5 April 2005, regrettably the Falkland Islands' Illex fishery will close at 0800 on Wednesday, 13 April 2005. This action is necessary for conservation reasons.

All type 'B' and 'G' licenses will cease to be valid at that time. Whilst 'B' licenses will no longer be valid for fishing after that time, they may continue to be used for transhipment, if required until 15 June 2005", indicated the Falklands release.

As has happened in the past with poor seasons, the issue of what level of refund should apply is "being considered", admitted the Islands Fisheries Department.

The release also highlights that in spite of the Argentine and Falklands efforts, the catching of Illex is the high seas will undermine conservation measures.