Illegal unreported and unregulated fishing is increasing the number
of endangered species in the Arafura and Timor Seas and is of major
concern to bounding countries, and coastal and indigenous communities
who depend upon the Arafura and Timor Seas for their livlihood.
The countries bordering the Arafura and Timor Seas have established
an Expert Forum (ATSEF), which is planning ways to improve the
management of the region, alleviate poverty and provide sustainable
development.
The Forum’s National Secretariats are meeting in Townsville and
working at the Australian Institute of Marine Science for a day to
coordinate a management and research agenda that will provide the
knowledge needed for wise management and use of the living resources.
It is also an opportunity for the Secretariats to become acquainted
with the AIMS facility and its capability, as well as establish links
to research agencies in their home nations.
The Forum was founded at a turbulent time during East Timor’s
battle for independence when relations between nations were frayed.
ATSEF National Secretariat and Regional Coordinator Dr Merrilyn
Wasson said progress made in two years has so impressed the United
Nations that it has given the region "International Waters" status
which brings with it funding to continue the work for a further ten
years.
"Research and action goes directly towards increasing food and
environmental security at a time when both are under pressure," Dr
Wasson said.
Member of the Steering Committee Frank Tirendi of AIMS said no one
nation can caretake these seas alone. "It is essential that we unite
research capacity to generate the knowledge and understanding needed
for effective management," he said. "Pressure on fish stocks is
increasing at an alarming rate. One of the main priorities of this
group is to help generate alternative livelihoods … new industries
compatible with the traditions of the coastal communities. Seaweed,
sponge and fish farming are some areas under investigation, "Mr
Tirendi said.
The need for this collaborative approach was highlighted after
Indonesia engaged Australia’s scientific expertise to assist with
coral reef research in 2000. In 2002, Timor-Leste, Indonesia and
Australia established the Tri-nations Steering Committee of government
and non-government agencies. Three months later the UN acknowledged
the forum by making it a United Nations World Summit on Sustainable
Development Partnership.
As the convenor for the National Secretariat for Timor Leste,
Senhora Nurima Alkatiri is a valued member of the group. As an
environmental scientist she combines her knowledge with political
savvy gained from her father who is the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste
(East Timor).
Photo and interview opportunities with members of the National
Secretariat will be made available at AIMS between 10:30am-11:15
Wednesday November 10.
Media contacts
Wendy Ellery, AIMS Media Coordinator
Phone: 07 4753 4409
Email: w.ellery@aims.gov.au
National Secretariat:
Dr Merrilyn Wasson (ATSEF National Secretariat & Regional
Coordinator, Australia)
Dr Tonny Wagey (ATSEF National Secretariat, Indonesia)
Ms Nurima Alkatiri (ATSEF National Secretariat, Timor Leste)
Dr Kishan Khoday (UNDP rep, Jakarta)
Subscribe to AIMS media releases at:
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