The Tunisian Fishermen's Association has expressed concerns over the decision to repeal Article 13 of the hunting regulation, which allowed fishermen to hunt migratory birds and harmful animals, such as wild boars and golden wolves, in certain closed areas. The association's member, Tarek Dkhilawi, stated that the repeal has led to the closure of these areas to all types of hunting, causing discontent among fishermen in several regions.
Dkhilawi warned of the potential consequences of banning the hunting of harmful animals, which could lead to their overpopulation and damage to livestock, poultry, and crops. He cited a previous experience in the governorate of Kasserine, where a two-year ban on hunting golden wolves resulted in significant losses to livestock, poultry, and agriculture.
The association's member also noted that reducing hunting areas will increase difficulties for fishermen, particularly in coastal regions with limited resources, who will have to travel longer distances to practice their activity. Additionally, the decision is expected to impact tourist hunting activities, which attract foreign tourists and generate revenue for the state's treasury.
According to Dkhilawi, the General Directorate of Forests justified the decision by citing a lack of sufficient human resources to monitor the areas. The Fishermen's Association plans to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the implications of the decision and negotiate with the Ministry of Agriculture and the General Directorate of Forests to find a mutually acceptable solution.
The decision to repeal Article 13 has sparked concerns about the environmental and economic impacts on the country's fishing and hunting sectors. The association is seeking to engage in dialogue with authorities to find a solution that balances the interests of fishermen and conservation efforts.
The Tunisian Fishermen's Association is taking steps to address the concerns of its members and mitigate the effects of the decision. The association's efforts aim to find a compromise that takes into account the needs of both the fishing community and conservation efforts.
The issue highlights the challenges of balancing conservation and economic interests in Tunisia's natural resources management. The outcome of the association's negotiations with authorities will likely have significant implications for the country's fishing and hunting sectors.
Key points
- The Tunisian Fishermen's Association warns of environmental and economic risks following the repeal of Article 13 of the hunting regulation.
- The decision to repeal Article 13 may lead to the overpopulation of harmful animals, causing damage to livestock, poultry, and crops.
- The association is seeking a mutually acceptable solution with authorities to mitigate the impacts of the decision on the fishing and hunting sectors.
