Belmopan. April 9, 2020. 3:31 p.m.
The Belize Fisheries Department hereby reminds all fishers and the public that in accordance with Statutory Instrument No. 54 of 2012, the queen conch (Strombus gigas) fishery remains closed as declared by the Minister of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development on March 27, 2020.
The Ministry and the Fisheries Department are aware of the difficult times the COVID-19 pandemic has created nationally. Please be assured that the Ministry and the Fisheries Department, along with the industry and fishing community, are exploring options as it relates to the future opening of both the spiny lobster and queen conch fisheries to ensure the optimal economic benefits to the Belizean people and the national economy.
Any person or establishment found in possession of the queen conch and/or lobster meat will be charged and prosecuted in a court of law in accordance with the Fisheries Regulations.
The fishing community and public is encouraged to respect and comply with the regulations and to report any illegal fisheries at
fisheries_department@fisheries.gov.bz or seniorfisheriesofficer@fisheries.gov.bz.
Ends
