SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY P.O. Box 629, Honiara, Solomon Islands: Phone: (677) Fax: (677)

Transcription

1 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY P.O. Box 629, Honiara, Solomon Islands: Phone: (677) Fax: (677) Website:

2

3 FFA MEMBER COUNTRIES Australia Cook Islands Federated States of Micronesia Fiji Kiribati Republic of Marshall Islands Nauru New Zealand Niue Palau Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu Produced for publication by Image Centre Auckland New Zealand Cover design by Image Centre Limited Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) P.O Box 629 Honiara Solomon Islands Phone: (677) Fax: (677) Website: FFA 21 The South Pacific Forum Fisheries Agency authorises the reproduction of this material, whole or in part, provided appropriate acknowledgement is given. c SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

4 CONTENTS PAGE Forum Fisheries Committee Chair s letter to the Chair of the Pacific Island Forum, 22 2 FFA Director s Report 21 3 Forum Fisheries Agency Staff, April Obituary 4 Annual Report Financials 42 Auditor s Report to the Forum Fisheries Committee for SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 1

5 2 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

6 Director ector s s Report t INTRODUCTION As required by Article VI (4) (a) of the FFA Convention, it is my pleasure to present to the Forum Fisheries Committee the Annual Report of the Director on the activities of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) for the year 21. This is my second such report to the Committee but it is the first report to cover activities in my first full year as Director of the Agency, having taken up the directorship of the Agency in November 2. The year 21 was another challenging year for the Agency, against the backdrop of the effects of the ethnic tension in the Solomon Islands. The fragile security environment in Honiara was a major cause for concern for the governing body of the Agency, the Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC). Several reports were prepared and arranged by the FFA Secretariat to furnish the FFC with all the relevant information they needed to determine the sensitive issue of the viability of the FFA Secretariat continuing to operate in Honiara. The FFC eventually decided against any need for an immediate temporary relocation of the Secretariat away from Honiara but required the FFC Chair and the Director to continue to closely monitor the security and operational situation in Honiara. They were further required to report and update member countries on any significant developments on the security environment in Honiara and to develop a contingency emergency relocation plan for use when the occurrence of certain events dictates an emergency relocation. Despite the fragile security environment and the deterioration of the quality of basic utility services, the Secretariat was able to operate at almost full capacity through out the year. It was also able to implement to a significant extent the approved work programme for 21. Once again, this was due simply to the dedication and unwavering commitment of all the staff and they should all be commended for their perseverance and great effort under very difficult and trying circumstances. With the adoption of the Convention for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific in September 2, the first session of the Preparatory Conference for the establishment of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific was held in April in Christchurch, New Zealand. This would be the first in a series of conferences that will undertake preparatory work in anticipation of the coming into existence of the Commission to be established when the Convention comes into force. The Secretariat provided support and logistics for the special FFC meeting convened in the margins of the first Preparatory Conference. It also serviced the FFC s annual session held in the Cook Islands from 7 1th May, 21 and another special FFC session in Nadi, Fiji on 5th November, 21 specifically convened to consider the sensitive issue of the viability of the FFA Secretariat to continue to operate in Honiara. A complete list of the meetings organized by the Agency in 21 is appended at Annex A. The continuation of the negotiation process for the extension of the US Multilateral Fisheries Treaty was another ongoing major activity that engaged the Agency in the year under this report. Two negotiation sessions were held in the year with the first official negotiation session being held in Apia, Samoa in March, 21 in conjunction with the annual consultation meeting of the Treaty and the second later in the year in Nadi, Fiji. It was during the Apia meeting that one of the long serving and well-respected staff of the Secretariat, the late Mr Felix Panjuboe was unexpectedly SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 3

7 called to rest. A major tragedy to the Secretariat and I would like to acknowledge here the significant contribution made by the late Felix to the administration of the US Multilateral Fisheries Treaty over the last ten years. I would also like to acknowledge my sincere gratitude and thanks to the government of Samoa and especially its Ministry of Foreign Affairs for all the arrangements taken to repatriate Felix Panjuboe s body to the Solomon Islands. The vacancy left by the untimely death of the late Felix Panjuboe was filled by the recruitment of Mr Kaburoro Ruaia, the former Secretary for Natural Resources Development of the government of Kiribati, in August, 21. Main Acheivements I am pleased to report some of the main achievements of the FFA Secretariat in 21. These are presented in more detail throughout this report. In brief they are: Provision of a comprehensive negotiating brief for member countries for the first Preparatory Conference for the establishment of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean; Servicing of two negotiation sessions for the extension of the Multilateral Treaty on Fisheries between the Governments of Certain Pacific Island States and the Government of the United States of America; Administration and further development of regional programs in support of fisheries management: the FFA Vessel Monitoring System, the regional register of vessels, and the regional observer program; Assistance to Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu and Vanuatu in the revision and preparation of national management and development plans for their tuna fisheries; Arrangements of fellowships, attachments and training workshops for more than 1 personnel from FFA member countries; Visits by the Executive Management to all member countries for consultations, and the subsequent completion and adoption of the new FFA Corporate Plan for 22-25; Adoption and implementation within the FFA Secretariat of the new harmonised employment conditions and; Successful management of the Agency in the context of the difficult situation in Honiara: additional security arrangements for staff, the establishment of a Police post in the administration centre, regular communications with the host government (Solomon Islands) and with member country missions in Honiara. 4 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

8 Main Challenges One of the main challenges for the Agency in 21 was coping with the ramifications of the ethnic tension that was experienced throughout the Solomon Islands. Apart from the direct security concerns, the standard and quality of basic utility services deteriorated significantly. The main services affected that hampered operations of the Agency were water and power shortages and the uncertainty and disruptions of international flight services. The disruptions to international flight services meant some staff were not able to attend meetings or visit member countries needing their services at the agreed time. In other instances, staff were required to leave well in advance of meeting time to ensure their attendance but at an increased cost to the Agency. The other main challenges were the provision of services to member countries as they entered the Preparatory Conference phase for the establishment of the Commission for the Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean; and also services to member countries as they entered into negotiations with the United States on the extension of the Multilateral Treaty on fishing access in the region. The management and expansion of the FFA Vessel Monitoring System in accordance with the requirements and policies of FFC and the Forum Leaders was also a significant challenge in OPERATING ENVIRONMENT IN HONIARA The security situation in Honiara, as a result of the ethnic tension continued to be a major cause for concern for the member countries of the FFA in 21. As a result, the Secretariat was required to monitor closely the situation and report regularly to the FFC on the security situation in Honiara with particular attention on its adverse implications on the approved work programme and budget of the Agency. The Director presented a comprehensive report to the annual FFC meeting in Rarotonga, Cook Islands held from 7-11 may, 21. The Committee after discussions of that report decided, amongst other things, that the FFC Chair would visit Honiara and establish direct links between FFC and officials of the Solomon Island Government and convey directly to them the concerns of the FFC about the impact of the ethnic tension on the operations of the Secretariat. The Committee further sanctioned the engagement of a consultancy to develop temporary relocation scenarios and associated cost. The FFC Chair visited Honiara in May, 21 and met with senior officials of the Solomon Island Government including the Prime Minister and some of his Cabinet Ministers. The report of his visit and the temporary relocation consultancy report were both tabled for discussion at a special FFC meeting convened on 5th November, 21 at the margins of the second US Treaty extension negotiations held at Nadi, Fiji. At that special FFC meeting the Committee decided, amongst other things, that there was no immediate need for a temporary relocation of the FFA headquarters and that the FFC Chair would re-visit Honiara to re-establish a direct link with the new Solomon Islands Government after the national general elections in the Solomon Islands on 5th December, 21. It was also agreed that the FFC Chair and Director would continue to monitor the situation confronting the Secretariat in Honiara and would report to member countries in the event of any significant development. Further the Secretariat was required to develop a contingency emergency relocation plan, which may be used in the event of certain occurrences. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 5

9 The Solomon Islands Government as host of the Agency continued to provide the necessary assistance to the Agency despite its own difficulties, and the Secretariat is most grateful for this. Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other ministries and departments were always available to discuss the concerns of the Secretariat. The establishment of a dedicated threeman police post at the FFA Headquarters was a significant positive development in addressing security concerns of the Agency and its staff and their families. The upgrading of the FFA feeder road to the FFA offices provided better security to the Agency s valued communication cables that lie under the road, especially those for the regional FFA Vessel Monitoring System. The Secretariat continued to liaise closely with the locally based missions of FFA member countries in Honiara, which include Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Their assistance and cooperation is greatly acknowledged and appreciated. 3. OVERVIEW OF THE FISHERIES IN 21 The Purse Seine Fishery A preliminary estimate of the 21 purse seine catch is 835, metric tonnes (mt). This was a marginal decrease of approximately 2,4mt on the 2 catch. Of the major distant water fleets, the US experienced a decline of approximately 13,mt while small declines were experienced for the Korean and Taiwanese fleets. The Spanish fleet which fishes sporadically in the eastern extremes of the western and central Pacific recorded a catch of only 2,4mt, a reduction of approximately 1,mt. In contrast, the Japanese catch increased by 8,3mt. The domestic and locally based fleet in FFA member countries increased its catch by approximately 16% to an estimated 136,mt. Key factors in this increase were increased catches by Papua New Guinea and Marshall Island based vessels. It should be noted that as further information becomes available it is likely that the final 21 catch will exceed that of 2. The reductions were apparently the result of reduced fishing effort, which occurred as a result of actions taken by vessel operators to restrict the supply of canning raw material in an effort to raise prices. In contrast, the fleet of vessels flagged to Pacific island countries and vessels based in these countries recorded an increase in catch of approximately 36,mt or 31%. The distant water fleet operating in the western and central Pacific is made up of 29 American, 41 Taiwanese, 35 Japanese, 27 Korean, 14 Spanish and 1 Filipino vessels, making a total fleet of 162 vessels. The American fleet has continued a steady decline, with three vessels changing ownership and now flagged to New Zealand. According to licensing data made available to the Secretariat, the locally based fleet in 21 was 6 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

10 made up of nineteen vessels in Papua New Guinea, five vessels in the Federated States of Micronesia, five in Marshall Islands, four in Solomon Islands, one in Kiribati, two in Vanuatu and three in New Zealand. The major change compared to last year was the growth in the number of New Zealand vessels, all of which are former US flag vessels. This fleet is expected to increase further in 22. A domestic fishery also operates in Australia and New Zealand with catches of 5,1 tonnes made by the New Zealand fleet 1. Most fleets continue to make use of drifting fishing aggregate devices (FADs). However, the number of FAD sets is reportedly much lower than in the previous year and as a result it is anticipated that the catch of juvenile bigeye will decline. According to the Oceanic Fisheries Programme (OFP) of the Pacific Community, sets on unassociated schools were the predominant fishing method for three of the four main distant water purse seine fleets in 21. Catches of bigeye in the purse seine fishery in the western and central Pacific in 2 fell by almost 5,mt from the record 1999 catch of approximately 33,8mt. A recent OFP report on the status of bigeye noted that recent catch levels may be close to the maximum sustainable with the present age specific exploitation pattern. Given this, FFA member countries have given consideration to the range of management options that might be applied to control bigeye catches and further work on this issue will be undertaken in 22. 3, 25, CATCH (tonnes) 2, 15, 1, 5, Japan Korea Taiwan USA Philippines Spain Locally Based FLEET The Longline Fishery Figure 1 The total tuna catch in the longline fishery in 2 was approximately 217,2mt 2, a record catch for the WCPO region. This was an increase of 7% on the 1999 catch. Bigeye and yellowfin comprised approximately 62% of the catch, while albacore comprised around 37%. It was estimated that both bigeye and yellowfin catches increased, with that for yellowfin increasing by 15% compared to only 5% for bigeye. The albacore catch also increased by approximately 4%. It is anticipated that the 21 albacore catch will be even higher. The previous total high in the longline fishery of 211,1mt was taken some 2 years earlier in 198, but with a vastly different [1] At the time of writing the report an estimate of the 21 catch for the Australian fleet was not available. [2] Source: SPC Yearbook 21. A reliable estimate of the 21 catch was not available at the time of compiling this paper. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 7

11 species composition, comprising mostly yellowfin. As in previous years, most of the 2 catch was taken by the large vessel distant water fleets of Japan, Korea and Taiwan. Effort by these fleets is widespread as sectors of these fleets target bigeye and yellowfin for the frozen sashimi market and albacore in the more temperate waters for canning. In contrast, the offshore fleets from Japan, China and Taiwan are restricted to the tropical waters and target bigeye and yellowfin for the fresh sashimi market. Of the Pacific island countries, significant domestic and locally based longline fisheries have been established in the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Tonga. The Australian fleet was also of significance with catches of approximately 5, tonnes in Outside of the FFA member countries there was also significant growth in the catch of the domestic fleets of American Samoa and French Polynesia. The South Pacific Project Facility (SPPF) is playing an active role supporting the development of the industry. SPPF Fisheries Programme continues to support fresh tuna long lining as the foremost development option for regional fisheries. Recent projects include two projects in Tonga both involved the funding of new long line vessels with one also involving the provision of shore infrastructure. A third long line related intervention, in Fiji, resulted in the securing of a grant from the EU-funded ebas programme for the design and construction of a value added processing plant based on tuna bycatch. The fourth long line project involved the securing of funds for a new vessel to join the commercial fishery in Samoa. The majority of the domestic longline fisheries are producing fresh tuna for the sashimi market. The exception is the fleet in Samoa where almost three quarters of the catch is sent to the canneries in American Samoa. Data coverage on domestic fleets is in many cases incomplete. This makes it difficult to estimate catches in some cases. However, in general, catches are increasing as more boats are being added to the fleet. The Pole and Line Fishery The Japanese distant water pole and line catch for 21 was estimated at 65,mt. Prices at the commencement of the fishing season were considerably higher than those for the corresponding period a year earlier. The fleet consists of approximately 4 vessels. The pole and line fleet supporting the cannery in Solomon Islands recommenced operations in the second half of 21, although with a reduced number of vessels. The other company in Solomon Islands that had previously operated pole and line vessels retired its fleet in 2 and now concentrates solely on purse seining. In Fiji a tataki operation is supplied by a small fleet of pole and line vessels previously operating in Solomon Islands. 8 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

12 Market Conditions CANNING MARKET Skipjack In 21 Bangkok skipjack prices recovered from the depressed levels seen throughout much of 1999 and 2. Bangkok prices (c&f) for 4-7.5lb skipjack rose dramatically during the first quarter of 21 with prices reaching around US$95/mt by late March more than double the US$38-4/mt price level seen in late 2. Prices then declined from late April through to early June before stabilising for the remainder of the year, trading in a range of US$7-8/mt. General Santos, Philippines prices followed a similar trend to Bangkok prices with prices rising dramatically during the first quarter of 21 to around US$98/mt in late March and then declining from late April through to early June before stabilising for the remainder of the year. Between June and December 21 General Santos prices remained in a tight trading range of US$7-75/mt. BANGKOK SKIPJACK PRICES (4-7.5LBS, C&F), US$ PER METRIC TONNE Jan- March May July Sep Nov Jan-1 March May July Sep Nov Prices for purse seine caught skipjack landed at Yaizu (Japan) in 21 averaged 15JPY/kg up by 42 per cent compared with 2. In US$ terms prices averaged US$856/mt during 21 up by 25 per cent on 2 levels. The reason for the lower increase in average US$ price compared with the JPY price was the depreciation of JPY against the US$ experienced during 21. While average prices for 21 increased in line with other world markets in the second half of 21 there were substantial fluctuations in prices in contrast to the steady prices seen in South-east Asian markets. Prices in JPY rose by over 3 per cent between July and October before declining by nearly 4 per cent between October and December. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 9

13 YAIZU MARKET PURSE SEINE CAUGHT SKIPJACK IN JPY AND US$ 3 Yen per kilogram US$ per metric tonne 2 Price in Yen (LHS) Jan- Mar May July Sep Nov Jan-1 Mar May July Sep Nov Price in US$ (RHS) 2 As for South-east Asian, prices for skipjack in European, Latin American and African markets during 21 recovered from the depressed levels seen during much of 1999 and 2. Prices in Spain (4-7.5lbs, c&f) finished 21 at around US$78/mt up by US$32/mt compared with December 2. Prices in Ecuador (4-7.5lbs, c&f) finished 21 at around US$75/mt up by US$3/mt compared with December 2 with prices in the Ivory Coast finishing 21 at around US$87/mt up by US$57/mt compared with December 2. SPAIN A, LATIN AMERICA B AND IVORY COAST C SKIPJACK PRICES, US$ per metric tonne Spain Latin America Ivory Coast Jan- Mar May July Sep Nov Jan-1 Mar May July Sep Nov Notes: Source: a. 1.8kg (4lbs) and up, c&f, origin Indian Ocean Spanish vessels. b. Latin American prices are based on Puerto Rico 4-7.5lbs prices for period January to November 2 and on Ecuador 4-7.5lbs c&f prices for December 2 to December 21. c. 1.8kg (4lbs) and up ex-vessel. Spain: Globefish European Price Report. Ivory Coast: Infofish Trade Market News. Puerto Rico: Infofish Trade Market News. Ecuador: and FFA source. [3] All exchange rate conversions reported in this report are based on inter-bank exchange rates as given by 1 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

14 Yellowfin As with skipjack prices Bangkok yellowfin prices were higher in 21 although the increase was of a lesser magnitude. Prices for yellowfin (2lbs and up, c&f) ranged from around US$9/mt to US$12/mt during 21 compared with a range of US$75/mt to US$11/mt in 2. Prices increased in early 21 peaking during April/May when they were trading in a range of around US$11-115/mt. Prices then trended downward to October and then were stable for the remainder of the year, trading in a range of US$95-12/mt. BANGKOK YELLOWFIN PRICES (2LBS AND UP, C&F), Yen per kilogram Jan- March May July Sep Nov Jan-1 March May July Sep Nov Note: The prices shown in the above figure are indicative figures only. They reflect mid-point estimates of prices paid during the respective month as obtained from a range of sources. Average monthly prices for purse seine caught yellowfin landed at Yaizu (Japan) were in a much smaller range during 21 - from JPY/kg - compared with the range of JPY/kg seen in 2. While prices were steadier in 21 the average price for 21 of 146JPY/kg was down by 12 per cent compared with 2. As a result of the depreciation of the JPY against the $US in US$ terms, the fall in average prices between 2 and 21, was around 2 per cent with prices averaging US$1,21/mt during 21. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 11

15 YAIZU MARKET PURSE SEINE CAUGHT YELLOWFIN IN JPY AND US$ Yen per kilogram US$ per metric tonne Price in Yen (LHS) Price in US$ (RHS) Jan- Mar May July Sep Nov Jan-1 Mar May July Sep Nov Yellowfin prices in Europe were generally higher in 21 compared with 2. Prices in Italy for product from French and Spanish vessels operating in the Atlantic and Indian Ocean (1kg and up) and in Spain for the same product from Spanish vessels rose above US$12/mt in June and were steady for the rest of the year in a range of US$12-13/mt. Prices in Italy for product from the western and central Pacific followed the same general trend as for product from the Atlantic and Indian Ocean although prices were US$5-15/mt lower. SPAIN A AND ITALY B YELLOWFIN PRICES (1KG AND UP, C&F) US$ per metric tonne Spain Italy Jan- March May July Sep Nov Jan-1 March May July Sep Nov Notes: Source: a. Origin: French and Spanish vessels operating in the Atlantic and Indian Ocean. b. Origin: Spanish vessels. Globefish European Price Report. 12 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

16 Albacore According to market reports from the Food Market Exchange 4 and FFA sources Bangkok albacore for canning market prices (1kg and up, c&f) fell significantly throughout 21 from around US$27-28/mt at the beginning of the year to less than US$2/mt by the year s end. As a result of the lower albacore prices and higher skipjack prices seen at the end of 21 compared with at the beginning of the year, the price of albacore as a multiple of the skipjack price fell from around 5 in January to around 2.5 in December. BANGKOK ALBACORE PRICES (1KG AND UP, C&F), US$ per metric tonne Jan- March May July Sep Nov Jan-1 March May July Sep Nov Note: The prices shown in the above figure are indicative figures only. They reflect mid-point estimates of prices paid during the respective month as obtained from a range of sources. According to data from the US International Trade Commission 5, imports of frozen albacore during 21 declined by 1,576mt (21%) to 4,427mt compared to 2. Average prices, however, increased by around 5% to US$2,612/mt compared with US$2,497/mt in 2. US FROZEN ALBACORE IMPORTS Metric tonnes US$ per metric tonne Jan- March May July Sep Nov Jan-1 March May July Sep Nov Volume (LHS) Price (RHS) [4] [5] dataweb.usitc.gov/scripts/user_set.asp SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 13

17 In contrast to the situation with regards to US imports, Thai imports of frozen albacore increased during 21 by 5,895mt or 21% to 33,438mt. Average import prices over 21 also increased in terms of both the Thai Baht and US$. Average Thai Baht prices rose by 18% from 95THB/kg to 112THB/kg while average US$ prices rose by 8% from around US$232/mt to around US$25/mt 6. THAI FROZEN ALBACORE IMPORTS 7 3 Metric tonnes US$ per metric tonne Jan- March May July Sep Nov Jan-1 March May July Sep Nov Volume (LHS) Price (RHS) [6] 14 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

18 Sashimi Market JAPANESE MARKET PRICES FOR FRESH YELLOWFIN AND BIGEYE The latest available data for prices at 1 major Japanese wholesale markets indicates that average prices for fresh yellowfin prices in JPY in 21 over the period to August was 981JPY/kg up from 966JPY/kg for the same period in 2, an increase of around 1.5 per cent. In US$ terms, however, as a result of the depreciation of the JPY against the US$ the average price over the period to August 21 fell to US$8.8/kg a decline of 1 per cent compared with the corresponding period in 2. The situation for fresh bigeye prices at 1 major Japanese wholesale markets over the period to August 21 was similar to that for yellowfin. Prices in JPY were up by around 2.5% to 126JPY/kg but down in US$ terms by 9% to US$1.39/kg compared with the same period in 2. AVERAGE MONTHLY FRESH YELLOWF IN PRICES AT 1 MAJOR JAPANESE WHOLESALE MARKETS IN JPY AND US$: JANUARY 2 TO AUGUST Yen per kilogram US$ per kilogram 2 Price in Yen (LHS) Price in US$ (RHS) Jan- March May July Sep Nov Jan-1 March May July 2 AVERAGE MONTHLY FRESH BIGEYE PRICES AT 1 MAJOR JAPANESE WHOLESALE MARKETS IN JPY AND US$: JANUARY 2 TO AUGUST Yen per kilogram US$ per kilogram Price in Yen (LHS) Price in US$ (RHS) Jan- March May July Sep Nov Jan-1 March May July 2 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 15

19 Japanese imports of fresh tuna Japanese imports of fresh yellowfin have been steadily increasing since 1997, following the sharp decline seen between 1995 and Japanese imports of fresh yellowfin were 36,282Mt in 21 up by 3,615mt or 11 per cent compared with 1997 and at their highest level since While fresh yellowfin import volumes have been steadily increasing since 1997 prices have been steadily declining. In 21 average fresh yellowfin import prices fell to 699JPY/kg a decline of 3 per cent compared with 2 and 19% compared with 1997 and were at the lowest level seen over the period In contrast to fresh yellowfin, imports of fresh bigeye declined marginally in 21 to 21,65mt, the lowest level seen over the period 1995 to 21. While imports of fresh bigeye decline in 21 by 1 per cent the decline was significantly lower than that seen between 1999 and 2 when imports declined by 9 per cent. Average prices of imported fresh bigeye in 21 were also at the lowest level seen over the period despite falling volumes. In 21 the price of imported fresh bigeye averaged 772JPY/kg down by 3 per cent compared with 2 and by 17% compared with JAPANESE FRESH YELLOWFIN AND BIGEYE IMPORT VOLUMES AND PRICES: Metric tonnes Yen per kilogram YFN - Volume (LHS) BET - Volume (LHS) YFN - Price (RHS) BET - Price (RHS) Japanese imports of fresh tuna from Pacific Island Countries and TerT erritoriesritories According to data of the Japanese Ministry of Finance 7 21 imports of fresh yellowfin and bigeye from Pacific Island Countries and Territories totalled 6,81mt and 6,568mt respectively. This represents an increase on 2 import volumes of 5% for fresh yellowfin and 12% for fresh bigeye. The proportion of total fresh yellowfin imports coming from Pacific island countries and territories in 21 was 19% compared with 18% in 2 and 16% in The proportion of imports of fresh bigeye from Pacific island countries and territories also rose in 21 to 3% compared with 27% in 2 and 24% in 21. [7] 16 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

20 Japanese imports of fresh tuna from FFA A member countries In 21 a total of 5,86mt of fresh yellowfin was imported into Japan from FFA member countries, excluding Australia and New Zealand. This represented an increase of almost 1,3mt, or 34%, when compared with 2. The dramatic rise was primarily driven by the rapid growth of imports from Papua New Guinea and Fiji of 62 and 65 per cent respectively. Imports in 21 from Papua New Guinea totalled 1,585Mt and from Fiji 1,166mt. Imports from Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia also saw significant growth with imports from the Federated States of Micronesia (1,149mt) up 13 per cent and Palau (8mt) up 12 per cent. Imports from the Solomon Islands in 21 (369mt) were steady compared with 2 after declining significantly between 1998 to 2. JAPANESE FRESH YELLOWFIN IMPORTS FROM FFA PACIFIC ISLAND MEMBER COUNTRIES 6 5 Metric tonnes Palau FSM Marshall Is. Solomon Is. Fiji PNG Japanese imports of fresh bigeye from FFA member countries, excluding Australia and New Zealand, also increased in 21, albeit at a lower rate of 8%, to 4,99mt. Imports rose from the Federated States of Micronesia (1,775Mt, up 38%), Solomon Islands (637mt, up 62%), Fiji (658mt, up 16%) and Papua New Guinea (43Mt, up 2%). Imports from Palau declined by 4 per cent to 789mt. JAPANESE FRESH BIGEYE IMPORTS FROM FFA PACIFIC ISLAND MEMBER COUNTRIES 6 5 Metric tonnes Palau FSM Marshall Is. Solomon Is. Fiji PNG SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 17

21 US imports of fresh yellowfin According to US trade data 8 the value of US imports of fresh yellowfin continued to grow in 21 continuing the rapid expansion experienced over the past decade. During 21 the value of fresh yellowfin imports rose 22% to US$85.5 million up from US$7.3 million in 2. This growth was primarily driven by an 18% increase in volumes, which reached 15,563mt. Average prices over 21 were up marginally to US$5.49/kg a 3% increase on average prices in 2. Among FFA member countries (excluding Australia and New Zealand) the main source of US imports were Fiji, Samoa and Tonga. While imports from Fiji declined by 2% in 21 to 799mt, after rising by over 35% between 1999 and 2 to a record 986mt, imports from Samoa and Tonga continued to grow rapidly. Imports from Samoa totalled 564mt up by 12% from 2, while imports from Tonga grew by over 14% to 191mt. The average price for product imported from Fiji remained steady in 21 at around US$3.15/kg. The average price for product imported from Samoa rose by 17% to US$4.68/kg. The average price for product imported from Tonga also increased, up by 6% to US$5.28/kg. US IMPORTS OF FRESH YELLOWFIN FROM FIJI, SAMOA AND TONGA 12 1 Metric tonnes Fiji Tonga Samoa Pole and Line Fishery The price of pole and line caught skipjack from the southern WCPO landed at Yaizu 9 at the start of the 21/2 were up significantly on the prices at the start of the 2/1 season. Average prices in JPY during December 21 were 191JPY/kg up from 121JPY/kg during December 2, an increase of 6%. As a result of the appreciation of the US$ against the JPY the increase in prices in terms of US$ was less pronounced although still substantial. The average US$ price of US$1278/mt during December 21 was up to 21% higher compared with December 2. [8] [9] Yaizu pole and line caught skipjack landings are reported for two fishing grounds, south and other although the grounds are worked by the same fleet. The south grounds refer to the southern WCPO. These grounds are worked during the off season in the fishery based in Japanese waters (referred to as other in Yaizu market reports). 18 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

22 YAIZU MARKET FOR POLE AND LINE CAUGHT SKIPJACK FROM THE SOUTHERN WCPO 3 3 Yen per kilogram US$ per metric tonne 5 5 JPY price (LHS) US$ price (RHS) Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May June Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May June Nov Dec 1999/2 Season 2/21 Season 21/22 Season 4. INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and developments associated with the law of the sea continue to provide an important framework for the peaceful uses of the oceans. There are now 137 countries that are Party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, including thirteen of the sixteen FFA member countries. The Convention not only provides the legal basis for the management and regulation of fisheries, but it also forms the basis on which inter State relations are governed with regard to responsible management of marine resources. A specific agenda item is now devoted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to law of the sea issues. The 56th Session of the UNGA in Resolution A/56/L.17 on Oceans and the Law of the Sea: Oceans and the Law of the Sea, amongst other things: - Welcomed the adoption by the Committee on Fisheries of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations of the International Plan of Action to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing, and urges States to take, as a matter of priority, all necessary steps to implement it effectively, including through relevant regional and subregional fisheries management organisations and arrangements; and Emphasised the importance of the implementation of Part XII of the Convention to protect and preserve the marine environment and its living marine resources against pollution and physical degradation, and calls upon all States to cooperate and take measures, directly or through competent international organisations, for the protection and preservation of the marine environment; SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 19

23 1995 UN Fish Stocks Agreement The UN Fish Stocks Agreement entered into force on 11 December 21 following Malta s ratification of the Agreement. There are now ten FFA States Parties to this Agreement FAO F Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries (International national Plan of Action (IPOA) on Illegal, Unlawful and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing). The Committee on Fisheries of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (COFI) in February approved the International Plan of Action (IPOA) to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unlawful and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing. The IPOA on IUU fishing provides comprehensive, effective and transparent measures to deal with IUU fishing. 11th Annual Meeting of States Parties to the UN Law of the Sea Convention (SPLOS) The 11th Annual Meeting of States Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea took place in New York from May. Although the FFA did not attend the meeting, a watching brief is kept over the issues discussed by the Parties. The FFA s Legal Division contributed to the development of a submission by SOPAC Missions in New York to extend the period under article 76 of the LOSC for States to claim continental shelves beyond 2 miles. International national Tribunal T on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) The International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) continues to play a pivotal role in shaping and influencing jurisprudence with respect to the oceans. One of the cases that went before ITLOS was the "Chaisiri Reefer 2" Case (Panama v. yemen). The case involved an application by Panama for the prompt release of the Chaisiri Reefer 2 after Yemeni authorities arrested it. On 13 July 21, following an agreement between Panama and Yemen, the "Chaisiri Reefer 2" Case was removed from the Tribunal's list of cases. The proceedings in the "Chaisiri Reefer 2" Case were instituted on 3 July 21 by an application made on behalf of Panama against Yemen, under article 292 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, for the prompt release of the vessel Chaisiri Reefer 2, its crew and cargo, which had been detained by the authorities of Yemen. The case on conservation of swordfish stocks between Chile and the European Community in the South- Eastern Pacific Ocean was withdrawn before it was heard by a special chamber of the ITLOS. The case involved a dispute between Chile and the European Community on catch levels of swordfish in the South-Eastern Pacific Ocean. In April, the ITLOS issued its judgement in the case between France and Belize over the vessel the GRAND PRINCE. Belize had made the application for prompt release of the vessel. The ITLOS is slowly but increasingly becoming an important institution in dealing with ocean related disputes. 2 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

24 5. FOREIGN FISHING ARRANGEMENTS Fishing Agreement and Licensing Database The Secretariat continues to seek information from the member countries concerning their access agreements with the distant water fishing nations in 21 for the Fishing Agreement and Licensing Database (FAL). Some improvements have been noted, however considerable progress is required before the database is in a position to better service the needs of the member countries in terms of providing information that would assist them with their access negotiations. As with all commercial in confidence information, it is perceived that there may be reluctance on behalf of one country to share access agreement information with other countries. This logical and understandable reluctance is usually based on the grounds that the country in possession of the information believes they will be disadvantaged by the act of providing such data to the Secretariat, which will be relayed to the other member countries. Therefore, it should be noted that the information provided and available in FAL is highly confidential and used only to assist member countries. Access Briefs In accordance with past practices, access negotiation briefs were provided on request to member countries. During the year 21, five access briefs were provided to Nauru, Solomon Islands, Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Papua New Guinea. A review of the access arrangements and methods of charging for access was also undertaken for the Marshall Islands. Japan Japanese bilateral access agreements are roll-over type with an annual licensing arrangement mechanism. Therefore, it continues to have access to all the waters of the Nauru Agreement countries, except Papua New Guinea, and Fiji. A series of consultation took place between the Japanese officials and Papua New Guinea during the year, concerning access to Papua New Guinea waters. No decisions have been made and the issue is still open for further discussion. Taiwan The Taiwanese offshore fishing fleet operated mainly in the northern part of the region but longline vessels are also operating in Fiji and Vanuatu waters. The fleet currently comprises of approximately 149 longline and 41 purse seine vessels. Longline vessels are currently licensed in Vanuatu and Fiji, Solomon Islands, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Palau and Papua New Guinea. Some of the vessels are licensed in Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia are locally based. All the vessels licensed in Papua new Guinea are locally based and targeting the Japanese sashimi market. Until mid 21, there were 42 purse seine vessels in the Taiwanese purse seine fleet after which SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 21

25 one was sold to an Indonesian company. The vessel was subsequently resold to a Chinese company in late 21. Throughout the year, the purse seine vessels were licensed and operating in all of the Nauru Agreement countries. Most of the licenses were for a period of one year, with the exception of the licenses issued by Kiribati. Kiribati licenses were issued for the period between one month to three months only. It is presumed that the short agreement/licenses were the result of the poor market conditions throughout 2 and the restrictions placed by the World Tuna Purse Operators (WTPO) in February 21 and subsequent months. Korea The Korean fishing fleet currently comprises of 27 purse seine vessels and 166 longline vessels. In 21, the purse seine vessels were licensed and operating in Papua New Guinea, Nauru, Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia. The licenses issued by Solomon Islands were for six months only. This was the first time the Korean purse seine vessels entered Solomon Islands waters since the expiration of charter arrangements in There are two separate Korean agreements in Kiribati. One agreement caters for 14 vessels and valid for one year and the other was with the Dongwong Industry fleet of 13 vessels and valid for the second quarter of 21 only. This agreement expired in June 21. The Korean longline vessels were operating in Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu waters only in 21. Philippines The Philippines fleet comprised of purse seine vessels only and operating in Papua New Guinea waters. Only two Filipino companies are eligible for access to the region and they are MYT Fishing and Frabelle Fisheries Company. The two companies operated under separate access agreements in Papua New Guinea in 21. A separate fleet of approximately 1 Filipino vessels also operates in Papua New Guinea waters. These vessels are locally-based in Madang and supplying the raw material needs of the RD Madang cannery. Spain The Spanish purse seine association, OPAGAC, continued to operate in the Kiribati waters in 21. The agreement allows for a maximum of 14 vessels to be licensed however, only 1 vessels were licensed in 21. United States of America There were 33 purse seine vessels licensed during the 13th licensing period (2 21) under the US Treaty. The number decreased to 3 at the commencement of the 14th licensing period. 22 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

26 People s s Republic of China Up until late 21, the People s Republic of China s fishing fleet in the region comprised only of longline vessels. In October 21, a Chinese purse seine vessel (formerly part of the Taiwanese fleet) was licensed in Papua New Guinea for the first time. The longline vessels were operating mainly in the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau and Fiji. The vessels operating in Fiji waters are mainly about 1GRT. In the Federated States of Micronesia, the vessels were between 85 and 125 GRT, however the majority are 125 GRT vessels. In Palau, the vessels were smaller in size with the majority being below 1 GRT. It is thought that these vessels are locally based and targeting the fresh sashimi market. 6. REGIONAL PROGAMMES The WCPT Convention Implementation of the Convention for Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPT Convention) and the anticipated establishment of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks for the Western and Central Pacific continued to be a major aspect of the work of the Secretariat throughout the year. Much of the work concentrated on regional efforts to develop a unified approach towards the establishment of the Commission through the formulation of a single negotiation brief. At the national level, effort was expended on ensuring legislation is updated to enable full implementation of the WCPT Convention, in particular, control of nationals fishing on the high seas, and having in place the legal framework that would allow for authorisations by FFA member country nationals to fish on the high seas. As at 31 December 21, fifteen (15) member countries had signed the WCPT Convention, including four (4) member countries that have ratified it. Seminar for Judicial Officers ficers A seminar was conducted for Judicial officers from a number of member countries in January. The general theme of the seminar was the Regulation of Tuna in the Pacific Islands. Funding for the seminar was provided by AusAid. The objectives of the seminar were to provide Judicial officers with an understanding of basic fisheries management and conservation principles relevant to the Pacific Islands; provide a good understanding of the law of the sea in particular the principles applicable to the management of the tuna resource; provide a good understanding of the responses of the Pacific Islands to the challenges of the law of the sea; and provide a good understanding of recent developments influencing the development of fisheries law in the Pacific Islands. Due to limited funding, it was not possible to support the participation of Judicial officers from all member countries. The seminar was part of the Secretariat s continuing effort to get a broader spectrum of the community to appreciate the principles and regulations governing fisheries conservation and management. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 23

27 Small Working W Group Meeting The Secretariat organised a small working group, which met in Nadi in March 21. Representatives from a number of the member countries participated in the Small Working Group. The purpose for convening the meeting was to assist the Secretariat in the development of the Negotiation Brief for the First Preparatory Conference meeting for the establishment of the Commission for the Conservation and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks which was held in Christchurch in April. The Small Working Group meeting was funded by NZODA. GEF/FFA A Legal Consultations The Secretariat convened a Legal Consultation on the practical implications of the implementation of the WCPT Convention in Nadi on 12 October 21. The objective of the Legal Consultation was to provide lawyers from member countries with the opportunity to discuss the practical implications of the WCPT Convention. In addition to staff from the Secretariat, other resource personnel at the Consultations were Grant Bryden and Professor Martin Tsamenyi. The subject matters covered by the Consultation included an overview of tuna management arrangements in the western and central Pacific Ocean; the implications of the WCPT Convention for domestic fishing practices in the region; ensuring adequate flag State responsibilities and high seas fishing authorisation; and boundary and jurisdictional issues. The Legal Consultation was part of the Secretariat s ongoing efforts to ensure member countries fully understand, and appreciate the significance of the WCPT and its implications for tuna management in the region. It followed the workshop conducted in Apia in October 2, which examined the general implications of the WCPT Convention. CSPOD 4 International national and Regional Obligations and Domestic Fisheries Legislation In March a Letter of Agreement between the Secretariat and representatives of Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) was signed providing funding by CSPOD for the implementation of a project to assess the extent to which obligations arising from international and regional treaties have been implemented in domestic legislation s. The objective of the project is to provide a matrix for each country on the status of implementation of international conventions and regional initiatives; to provide up-to-date data on measures that have been incorporated and those that need to be incorporated into domestic laws; to provide recommendations and preferred actions to be taken by member countries; to provide a living, dynamic document for each member country as an Action Plan for implementation of international conventions and regional initiatives; and to develop and establish a Regional Action Plan on how to proceed nationally with implementation and incorporation into domestic laws. It is anticipated that the project will be completed by June 22. be presented at regional workshop to be convened in June 22. The outcomes of the project will 24 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

28 FFA A fellowship, attachments and Training workshops During 21 approximately 1 personnel from member countries took part in fellowship attachments or training workshops organised by the Agency. Funding for these activities was also arranged by the Agency. The provision of fellowships, attachments and training workshops has been one of the main methods that the Agency has employed to facilitate the development of national capacities for the management of tuna resources. These activities have included: A planning workshop for the first Preparatory Conference for the tuna commission; Monitoring Control and Surveillance (MCS) training courses; Observer managers workshops; MCS and legal consultations; and Fellowship and attachments with FFA s technical divisions in Honiara, Solomon Islands. FFA A member countries vessel monitoring system The FFA Secretariat manages and administers the FFA member countries vessel monitoring system (FFA VMS), a satellite based system vessel tracking system. The system s hub-site, based at Honiara, provides a conduit for member country sites to download, on demand, data on the position, speed and direction of foreign fishing vessels active inside their respective EEZs. The number of vessels of all types in good standing on the FFA VMS Register increased very gradually during 21 to its current level of 68 vessels, compared with 545 at the same time in the previous year. Several FFA member countries now insist on the carriage and continuous use of the FFA VMS on fishing vessels as a condition of licence in their respective EEZs. However, some FFA member countries are continuing to licence foreign fishing vessels that are not in good standing on the FFA VMS Register. Because the system s cost-recovery model is based on 1, vessels, it is totally reliant for its full implementation on the inclusion of the FFA VMS in bilateral fisheries access agreements. Despite the success achieved in 21 in boosting the number of vessels in good standing on the system, only 36 per cent of fishing vessels in good standing on the FFA VMS Register were providing position reports to the FFA VMS in early 21. At present, only 23% of vessels are regularly reporting to the system. It is clear that the FFA VMS will only be fully effective if FFA member countries apply their national legislation requiring fishing vessels fitted with FFA VMS equipment to keep it on at all times while the vessels are operating in their respective EEZs. During 21 the programme trained 8 VMS officers from Federated States of Micronesia and 1 from Papua New Guinea during in-country workshops. Further VMS training for other FFA member country MCS personnel took place at the FFA Secretariat during MCS Training Courses in June and September 21. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 25

29 Regional Register The total number of vessels of all types in good standing at the end of the 2/21 Regional Registration period was 1,264 compared with 1,126 for the 1999/2 period and 927 for the 1998/1999 period. The majority of these vessels are longliners (66%), with fewer numbers of purse seiners (16%), fish carriers (9%), pole-and-line (3%), search/anchor (2%), bunker (1%), motherships (1%) and others (2%). The increase was mainly due to the increased registration of Taiwanese and Korean longline vessels. The total number of vessels is expected to reach approximately 1,2 by the end of the current registration period on 31 August 22. The practice of responding to requests for information on vessels, operators, owners etc. or entities involved in the fishing industry continued in 21 on an ad-hoc basis, as did monthly distribution to member countries of a listing of all vessels on the Regional Register. Non-confidential listings from the Regional Register were also provided on request to persons or organisations other than those in FFA member countries, as agreed at FFC31. Observer Programme During 21 the programme trained 19 new fisheries observers from Marshall Islands, 18 from Papua New Guinea, 18 from Kiribati and 15 from the Federated States of Micronesia. These fisheries observers will form the core of their respective national fisheries observer programmes. The newly trained observers are also eligible for selection in the regional observer programme operated under the US Multilateral Treaty. Despite several logistical difficulties, the 2% target for observer trip coverage of the U.S. Treaty purse seine vessels was again exceeded in 21. This achievement is a result of the excellent relationships that have been built with the U.S tuna industry, co-ordinated by the FFA Secretariat, and the efforts of the Pacific island observers. The required observer coverage for the FSM Arrangement purse seine vessels was also achieved during 21. This continued achievement is evidence that multilateral observer programmes combining compliance and scientific objectives are beneficial to FFA member countries. Information collected from the FFA regional observer programmes was entered on a database held at the FFA Secretariat, enabling fisheries managers from regional organisations or FFA member countries to access the data for their differing management, scientific or compliance purposes. The project to place Pacific island nationals as crewmen on U.S. Treaty purse seine vessels commenced in November 21 with the provision to the U.S. Tuna Foundation of a list of prospective crewmen, drawn from almost every FFA member country. Database Management The base design of the Regional Register database was changed to capture and store historical information for all vessels that are in the database. The initial design did not allow for historical information to be stored. For example, when a vessel changes its name, flag or call sign, the old record was modified but replaced with the new record. The old details were lost. 26 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

30 This change was made to ensure that the other systems that use vessel information, example catch details and violations records correctly reflect the vessel details at the time the activities took place. For e.g. when a violation details are created details are retained along with other details such as its license number, violations etc. 7. MULTILATERAL TREATY ON FISHERIES WITH THE UNITED STATES Number of VesselsV A total of 33 purse seine vessels were licensed during the thirteenth licensing period (2-21). The number decreased to 3 during the commencement of the fourteenth licensing period (21-22). Catch The total catch made during the thirteenth licensing period was 17,154.75mt, which included catch made in international and other waters. Of this amount, 83,176.67mt was caught in the waters of the Pacific Islands parties. This represented a net catch upon which distribution of the 85% share was made. The amount also represented a decrease of approximately 28,8.3mt from the previous year s catch. Fund Distribution The total amount of fund distributed during the thirteenth licensing period as at 31 December 21 was USD$18,888,341.2 Out of these funds, USD$2,37,99.45 was distributed to the Pacific island Parties in June 2 as 15% share; USD$1,778,. was distributed as Project Development Fund allocations; and USD$14,738, was the final 85% share distributed based on the catch made in the Pacific island Parties waters as at 31 December 21. Technical Co-operation The Annual Technical Co-operation talks were held in November 21 in San Diego. These talks were informal and involved meetings between the US Government and industry representatives with representatives from the Pacific island Parties and the FFA Secretariat. A report on the results of the talks has been prepared and distributed to member countries. Treaty Amendments The three Treaty amendments, one each from Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and United States of America that were discussed and approved at the 11th Annual Consultation in Palau, have yet to come into effect, as a number of the parties have not ratified the amendments to date. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 27

31 Treaty Extension The Parties to the Treaty have commenced negotiation to extend the application of the Treaty beyond the current limit of 15th June, 23. The first substantive negotiation session was held in March 21 in Apia, Samoa at which discussions were focussed on the important factors of number of vessels, fee level, and the duration of the extended Treaty, among other issues. The second substantive negotiation session was held in November 21 in Nadi, Fiji, at which significant progress was made in negotiating for the extension of the Treaty. Negotiations were expected to continue in March 22 in Kiritimati Island, Kiribati in conjunction with the annual Treaty consultation. 8. NATIONAL PROGRAMMES National Tuna T Management and Development Plans Assistance in the preparation and revision of national tuna management and development plans was provided to Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu and Vanuatu in 21. The work in Fiji was funded through C-SPODPII and involved the employment of Canadian and Fijian consultants and input from the Secretariat of the Pacific Community and the Forum Secretariat. The work in the Cook Islands and Tuvalu was undertaken using the Secretariat s own resources in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community. In Papua New Guinea, the Secretariat provided advice on the revision of the existing tuna management plan and supported the holding of a Tuna Consultative Meeting on the revised plan with funding from the GEF International Waters Project. In Vanuatu, similar support was provided for a National Fisheries Management and Consultative Meeting to review the tuna management plan, the draft revised Fisheries Act and a report on the management of Vanuatu-Flagged Vessels. Further work will be undertaken in 22 using both GEF and C-SPODPII funding. Domestic Industry y Development The Secretariat assisted Cook Islands in reviewing their domestic policies in late 21. Domestic industry development issues were also addressed in the development and review of tuna management plans in Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu and Vanuatu in 21. Other regional agencies, notably the Secretariat of the Pacific Community and the Forum Secretariat also contributed to work in this area at various stages. In accordance with the recently approved Corporate Plan, it is hoped to expand activities in this area in 22. MCS Support The VMS Support Officer visited Tonga, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Marshall Islands, Palau, Tuvalu, Fiji, Nauru and Samoa during 21 to train MCS personnel in the use of in-country FFA VMS equipment and conduct maintenance on this equipment. 28 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

32 The Observer Programme Manager visited Kiribati, Federated States of Micronesia, Marshall Islands and Papua New Guinea to train fisheries observers for national observer programmes in these countries. He also supplied logistical support to national fisheries observers from Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Federated States of Micronesia. MCS Officers from Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Kiribati and Nauru successfully completed MCS Fellowship attachment at the FFA Secretariat in 21. Review of Vanuatu s s Fisheries Act With funding from CSPOD II, a draft Fisheries Bill was developed in consultations with the Fisheries Department of Vanuatu. The draft Bill followed a review that was also undertaken during the year of all fisheries and marine related legislation s for Vanuatu to appraise their consistency with the 1982 UN Law of the Sea Convention. The draft Bill provides greater clarification for the implementation of Vanuatu s obligations as a flag State under international law. The strengthening of domestic legislation s to empower member countries to deal with fisheries conservation and management problems continued to be one of the key focus of the Legal Services Division throughout the year. The review of Vanuatu s domestic legislation s was also funded under CSPOD II. Dockside Boarding and Inspection and Fisheries Prosecutions Workshop (PNG) A Dockside Boarding and Inspection training workshop was held in Papua New Guinea in September for Naval and Fisheries Surveillance personnel. The workshop involved practical boarding and inspection of fishing vessels in Port Moresby harbour. The workshop was conducted by officers from the Compliance Unit of West Australia Fisheries. The Dockside Boarding and Inspection Workshop was funded by AusAid. The workshop was preceded by a one-week Prosecutions Workshop also for Fisheries Surveillance Officers. It was supported through funding provided under CSPOD II. National Fisheries Management Workshop W (Vanuatu) A National Fisheries Management Workshop was conducted in November in Port Vila. The workshop involved officials from the various provincial governments throughout Vanuatu and other key stakeholders in the tuna fishery. The three key subject matters discussed at the workshop were the draft Fisheries Bill 21, the Report on Flag State Responsibilities for Vanuatu and the Tuna Management and Development Plan. Funding for the workshop came from UNDP/GEF. Attorney General s s Conference ence (Fiji) The Secretariat participated in the Fiji Attorney General s Conference held at the Naviti Resort from December 12 to 14. The Secretariat presented a paper entitled Ocean Governance in the South Pacific: Challenges and Constraints in the Implementation of the Law of the Sea. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 29

33 9. RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER CROP ORGANISATIONS FFA has maintained close contact and good working relations with the staff of other regional organisations, particularly in work of mutual interest. FFA has provided information, advice and briefing notes to the Forum Secretariat in Fiji on matters related to the tuna fishery in the region. The Director and Deputy Director attended the annual CROP Heads meeting hosted by South Pacific Regional Environment Programme in Apia in May, 21. FFA has a close relationship with the Oceanic Fisheries Programme of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) in providing advice and assistance to member countries on management and development of tuna resource, including the establishment of the tuna commission in the western and central Pacific Ocean. SPREP has greatly assisted FFA in delivering the GEF International Waters project to member countries. This project is the main source of financing to assist member countries participate in the process of the new tuna convention. FFA has provided assistance to SOPAC in the transfer of the maritime boundaries project. All the regional agencies previously mentioned have collaborated in drafting an Oceans Policy for the region Regional Oceans Policy A framework setting out the Regional Oceans Policy has been agreed to by the Forum. FFA contributed to the drafting of the Regional Oceans Policy through membership of the Marine Sector Working Group of regional organisations. The Regional Oceans Policy provides basic principles and a framework for the management of the region s marine environment. The Forum Secretariat has the lead role in the further development of the Regional Oceans Policy. The objectives of the Regional Oceans Policy are: To recognise common principles underlying existing intergovernmental agreements that apply to the Pacific Ocean, and establish evident principles that may not have already been captured in agreements; To assist, confirm and apply consistency in future agreements amongst Pacific islands and between Pacific islands and the rest of the world; to assure consistency in the oceanic work of regional organisations; and to provide a common set of agreed principles that can be later included in any national policies that are developed to assure the application of principles of sovereign and local ocean stewardship; and To emphasise principles of social equity, and the maintenance or improvement of Pacific island livelihoods, in all regional activities and agreements relating to the ocean; and to guide future intergovernmental agreements concerning the Pacific Ocean along a socially and environmentally sustainable path towards regional economic integration. 3 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

34 1. INVOLVEMENT WITH INTERNATIONAL AND OTHER REGIONAL ORGANISATIONS AND EVENTS The Director attended the bi-annual meeting of the Committee on Fisheries, Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations in Rome, Italy in February 21. This was preceded by the 2nd meeting of Regional Fisheries Bodies which the Director represented FFA. In March 21 FFA s Manager Monitoring, Control and Surveillance, and Lamiller Pawut of Papua New Guinea, Chair of the MCS Working Group, visited Yaizu, Japan to participate as observers at an inter-sessional meeting of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) on the establishment of a control and inspection scheme. In March 21 FFA was invited by World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to share the region s experience in negotiating access agreements with the West African countries. Glen Joseph from Marshall Islands accompanied the Project Economist to the workshop in Senegal, West Africa. In May 21, the FFA Legal Counsel together with Brendon Pasisi of Niue attended the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT) working group meeting on allocation in Brussels, Belgium. In June 21 the Fisheries Management Advisor I and Bernard Thoulag of the Federated States of Micronesia attended the IATTC meeting in San Salvador, El Salvador In July 21 FFA s Manager Monitoring, Control and Surveillance participated as an observer at the 19th Session of the Coordinating Working Party on Fishery Statistics, held at the SPC, Noumea, New Caledonia under the auspices of the FAO. The FFA Secretariat was invited to participate by the SPC. In August 21 the Fisheries Management Adviser 2, Tuna Industry Adviser and Observer Programme Manager participated at the 14th Standing Committee for Tuna and Billfish (SCTB) and associated working group meetings held in Noumea, New Caledonia. In August 21 the Project Economist attended the Third International Billfish Symposium in Cairns, Australia. The main purpose of this task was to observe the discussions and subsequently prepare a report on Game Fishing as a domestic industry development initiative for some of the member countries. A report was prepared and distributed to member countries In October 21 FFA s Manager Monitoring, Control and Surveillance participated in a meeting of the executive committee of the International Network for Fisheries Monitoring, Control and Surveillance held at Hobart, Australia. Hosted by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority, the meeting provided an opportunity for MCS practitioners to present case studies of cooperation between agencies of different countries on MCS issues. The Deputy Director led an observer mission in December 21 to the annual session and the meeting of the IOTC Scientific Committee. Other members of the observer mission were Akau ola, from Tonga, and Ramon Rechebei from Palau. The aims of attending were to gain an understanding of how another tuna commission operates and how the needs of small developing States are addressed. A report on this observer mission has been distributed to all FFA member countries. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 31

35 11. ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES Financial Perfor formance Year 21 expenditure, exclusive of the Housing Fund and VMS Fund was USD$ 3,654,225. Membership contributions made up 43% of General Fund income. The details of year 21 income and expenditure are provided in the set of financial statements, a summary of which form a separate part of this report. The financial report received an unqualified report from the independent external auditor, and shows a small operating surplus. Trust Fund Contributors The Forum Fisheries Agency expresses its appreciation to donor Governments and development assistance agencies that provided assistance in year 21. Without such assistance the Agency could not carry out many of its programme activities, which contribute so importantly to maximising the sustainable returns to Pacific island member countries from their tuna resources. A full list of donor funding for 21 appears later in this report as a note to the Financial Accounts. Total expenditure through the Trust Fund in year 21 was USD $1.84 million of which Australia through the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) contributed 35%. The UNDP through the Global Environment Fund (GEF) provided 21%, Canada through the Canadian International Development Agency s CSPODP II program provided 19%, New Zealand through the New Zealand Overseas Development Assistance program provided 8% and the Republic of Taiwan 6%. AUSTRALIA Australia is both a donor and member country and this role continued to be of crucial importance to the Agency. Australia provided support to all of the Agencies programs. Through AusAID Australia provided funding for executive support to FFA s management and the key positions of Project Economist, Fisheries Management Adviser 1, Observer Program Manager, and Network Administrator as well as a range of key activities spread across the Agency s work programme. The level and scope of Australia s assistance is vital to FFA s operations and is acknowledged with great appreciation. UNDP/GEF UNDP s International Waters Program funded through the GEF made a key contribution to the ability of FFA s Pacific island member countries to participate successfully in the crucial processes to establish a new tuna management commission in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. It also provided for the post of Fisheries Management Adviser II, which provides essential support to FFA and member countries for participation in the processes to establish the new tuna Commission. CANADA Canada s long term support through the CSPODP II program continued to provide invaluable support to the Agency s Legal Services, Economics and Marketing, and Monitoring Control and 32 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

36 Surveillance programmes. Without this ongoing support FFA would not have been able to staff the post of Legal Officer, conduct the highly successful Regional Monitoring Control and Surveillance meetings or prepare as many national tuna management plans. The synergies created by the Canadian funding are particularly important to a small Agency like FFA that is servicing such a large region and resource. NEW ZEALAND New Zealand is both a member country and a donor and this dual role is highly appreciated by FFA. New Zealand provided particular support for the Economics and Marketing, Information Technology, Monitoring Control and Surveillance and Legal Services work programmes. This wideranging support coupled with the flexible approach taken by New Zealand is of great assistance to the Agency and highly valued. TAIWAN Taiwan s generous contribution to the Agency is particularly important to the Agency because it helps support important infrastructure and capital purchases. In 21 Taiwan, through the Economics and Marketing Division enabled FFA member countries to observe and participate in important meetings of other tuna management commissions. In addition, it assisted the Agency take special security measures to deal with the problems experienced in Honiara and to purchase a mini bus all of which is important to the Agency s operational needs. This package of support represents unique practical assistance that is highly appreciated. Staffing fing The major staffing developments in year 21 were: the appointment of Kaburoro Ruaia, former Permanent Secretary of the Government of Kiribati s Ministry of Natural Resources Development as Multilateral Treaties Manager; the appointment of Joel Opnai of Papua New Guinea as Fisheries Management Adviser 1; the reappointment after completing a second three-year contract with the Agency of Monitoring Control and Surveillance Manager Andrew Richards and Executive Officer Barbara Hanchard; the departure of Fred Amoa who completed his final contract with the Agency after 9 years service to the region. On behalf of the Agency I thank Fred for his contributions to the work of FFA. I also wish him and his family all the very best in the future. the Agency was also extremely distressed to lose long time friend and colleague Felix Panjuboe who died in Samoa during the March 21 US Treaty meeting. We all miss his wisdom, wit, good nature and technical skills. Felix s passing was a great loss to the region and he will not be forgotten. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 33

37 Adoption and implementation of harmonisation CROP employment conditions In accordance with the decision of the last annual session of the Forum Fisheries Committee held at Rarotonga, Cook Islands, May 21, a new harmonised set of employment conditions were fully and successfully implemented in 21. Acknowledgement must go to all concerned with the technical implementation and to all staff for their cooperation, understanding and support in what was a complex and protracted multi-agency exercise. Development of the new Corporate Plan The strategy and methods used by the Secretariat to develop the FFA Corporate Plan were carried out under the direction and guidance of the Forum Fisheries Committee. Before the new plan was drafted, the Executive Management visited each member country to meet with the official and fisheries contacts as well as other government officials and private sector representatives. Guidance was sought and information was compiled on what member countries expected from the Secretariat during the period Meetings were also held with other regional organizations to obtain their input to the Plan. All the information gathered was analysed, and it formed the foundation for the new Plan. The content and structure of the Plan were discussed at a workshop at the FFA Conference Centre in late 21. The FFC Chair and several individuals from member countries, together with Secretariat staff, participated in the workshop. Two external consultants were involved in the analysis of interview information, facilitation of the workshop, and drafting the plan in collaboration with the Director and senior staff of the Secretariat. A significant financial contribution was provided by AusAID for the development of the Plan. This support is very much appreciated as it has resulted in a quality plan with strong commitment by the staff of the Secretariat and all those who have a direct interest in the work of the Agency. The FFA Corporate Plan was approved by FFC in late 21, and it has been published and distributed. The new plan will be the basis of the annual Work Programme and Budget. The Secretariat will report to the FFC annual session on the performance of the Agency according to strategies, tasks and performance indicators of the FFA Corporate Plan Communication technology There has been significant improvement in the communication links to the FFA headquarters. The internet bandwidth has been upgraded to 64 Kilobytes per second up from 28.8 Kilobytes per second. This has improved the speed of internet and data transmissions. Shortly after the upgrade of the internet bandwidth, the X.25 communications protocol used by the Vessel Monitoring System to download its vessel position from LES was dropped. The component of the VMS system that utilised this protocol was changed to use internet as a means to download positions. All VMS data is now transmitted through the 64K internet bandwidth along with the other and internet traffic without compromising security of the data. This mode has proved more reliable and less costly. The aging telex communication has been de-commissioned for use. Telex was used mainly by the 34 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

38 US Treaty vessels for communicating catch and weekly reports. All vessels now use faxes or via Inmarsat C satellite to transmit the same reports. The installation of most of the equipment for the radio link, which will by-pass the underground telephone cables has been completed. Solomon Telekom is awaiting the arrival of the rest of the equipment to complete the installation. When this project is complete all essential telephone lines including the internet leased line which carries VMS vessel position data, internet and traffic will be routed through the radio link. This will avoid disruption normally caused to data communication when the underground telephone cables get tampered or damaged. Staff f development and training in 21. The following is a summary of development and training by FFA staff in 21: All professional staff participated in at least one, and in most cases several overseas workshops or meetings in their area of technical competence. Whilst the primary purpose of such participation was to provide technical input, the opportunities also enable staff to hone existing skills and build up experience and knowledge. Six support staff participated in FFC meetings or other regional meetings outside Solomon Islands. It is beneficial to the Agency for its support staff to understand the Agency s roles and responsibilities within the whole region. All finance and accounting staff undertook specialist training in financial systems during the year, utilizing the opportunity that arose when Technology One undertook the standard system post implementation review in Honiara. There were a small number of job rotation exercises undertaken by support staff within the Agency. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 35

39 All staff participated in performance appraisal, policy formulation, planning, and team building exercises in-house. All staff were encouraged to locate, read and evaluate up-to-date material in their areas of expertise within FFA. The Australian Institute of Management was contacted for advice on interpersonal and management skills appropriate for FFA supervisory staff. Preparator eparatory y Conference ence Organisation Fund In 21 FFC agreed that the FFA Secretariat would administer the Preparatory Conference Organisation fund in accordance with the guidelines approved by the Preparatory Conference for the Establishment of the Commission to Conserve and Manage the Tuna Resources of the Western and Central Pacific. The FFA Secretariat collaborated with the interim Secretariat of the Preparatory Conference in the establishment of this fund in a special account with the FFA bankers. FFA is required under the guidelines to provide details on income and expenditure for reporting to each Preparatory Conference. The Preparatory Conference Organisation Fund is subject to a separate report to FFA s independent external auditors. This report is to be submitted to the Preparatory Conference. Under the guidelines FFA receives a service fee to cover the costs of administering the fund which in 21 was a relatively small amount. 36 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

40 12 CONCLUSION The year 21, despite the disruptions of the ethnic tension on the operational requirements of the FFA Secretariat, has been another successful year. The Agency was able to deliver substantially what was required in its annual work programme for 21. This was due as I mentioned in the report to the unwavering dedication, commitment and professionalism of the staff and I congratulate and commend them for their efforts. The governing body of the FFA, the FFC has also been an inspiration to the Secretariat during the difficult times in Honiara and their support, cooperation and understanding is most highly appreciative. I would also like to thank Mr Joe Thwaites and Mr Alava a Navy Epati who filled the position of FFC Chair for 21 for their support and guidance provided to the Director and senior management of the Secretariat. The Solomon Island Government as host of the FFA must also be commended for their efforts and preparedness to assist the Secretariat throughout 21 despite their own difficulties. With the adoption of the FFA Corporate Plan 22 25, the Agency has now a new charter to guide it operations and activities for the next four year. I welcome the new corporate plan and look forward to the challenges that lie ahead. The Plan, I am confident will ensure that the services provided by the Secretariat would be relevant and beneficial to the membership of the FFA in the context of the new conservation and management environment that the new Tuna Convention and other international instruments would impose in the immediate future. In this new international fisheries management environment the solidarity of the FFA member countries would be under severe pressure. This would be the greatest challenge, in my view, in the immediate future and the FFA Secretariat as reflected in the new Corporate Plan would be an important catalyst in ensuring that the solidarity of member countries of the FFA remain intact despite those pressure. The new Corporate Plan would assist us in facing that challenge and I would urge member countries to also play an effective and constructive role in ensuring that the objectives of the FFA are achieved. In the face of the challenges that lie ahead I would request the usual cooperation, support and understanding of all of our member countries and other stakeholders of the Agency. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 37

41 LIST OF MEETINGS ORGANISED BY FFA IN 21 Annex A 1. Informal meeting between the FFA Secretariat and some FFA member country representatives to discuss the contents of the negotiation brief for the first Preparatory Conference of the new tuna commission. Nadi, Fiji. March MCS Working Group. Honiara, Solomon Islands. March Annual Consultation on the Treaty between the Pacific Island Parties and the United States. Apia, Samoa. March First Negotiation Session on the US Treaty Extension. Apia, Samoa. March Special Meeting of the Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC47). Christchurch, New Zealand. April Annual Meeting of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement. Rarotonga, Cook Islands. April Annual Meeting of the Parties to the Palau Arrangement. Rarotonga, Cook Islands. April Annual Meeting of the Parties to the FSM Arrangement. Rarotonga, Cook Islands. May Tuna Species Working Group. Rarotonga, Cook Islands. May Forum Fisheries Committee Annual Meeting (FFC48). Rarotonga, Cook Islands. May MCS Training Course. Honiara, Solomon Islands. May FFA Observer Coordinators and Managers Workshop. Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia. June FFA Corporate Planning Workshop. Honiara, Solomon Islands. August PNG Fisheries Management Workshop (a joint effort between PNG and the FFA Secretariat). August MCS Training Course. Honiara, Solomon Islands. September US Treaty Broader Cooperation Informal Meeting. San Diego, USA. September Vanuatu Fisheries Management Workshop (a joint effort between Vanuatu and the FFA Secretariat). November Special Meeting of the Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC49). Nadi, Fiji. November Second Negotiation Session on the US Treaty Extension. Nadi, Fiji. November SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

42 FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY STAFF 9 APRIL 22 Executive Management Director Feleti P. Teo Tuvalu Deputy Director Barry Pollock Australia Executive Officer N Barbara Hanchard Cook Islands Personal Assistant - Director Anne Vave Solomon Islands Personal Assistant - Deputy Director Callista Murdoch Solomon Islands Economics & Marketing Manager Economics & Marketing Len Rodwell Australia Market Adviser Chris Reid Australia Project Economist Josie Tamate Niue Fisheries Management Adviser 1 Joel Opnai Papua New Guinea Fisheries Management Adviser 2 Les Clark New Zealand Tuna Industry Adviser Minoru Honda Japan Monitoring Control & Surveillance Manager Monitoring Control & Surveillance Andrew Richards Papua New Guinea Observers Programme Manager Karl Staisch Australia Surveillance Operations Officer Michael Ferris Australia Fisheries Surveillance Adviser(Guam) Vacant Register Data Officer 1 Cecelia Navere Solomon Islands Register Data Officer 2 Tupou Forau Solomon Islands Vessel Monitoring Albert Carlot Vanuatu System Support Officer Fisheries Enforcement Advisor Vacant Legal Services Legal Counsel Transform Aqorau Solomon Islands Legal Officer Vacant Information Technology & Communication Information &Technology Manager Norman Kapun Papua New Guinea Senior Analyst Programmer Gurd Mar Fiji Senior Project Analyst Vacant Database Administrator Ramesh Chand Fiji Network Administrator Gerald Porowai Solomon Islands Information Officer Vacant Data Librarian Vacant Librarian Vacant Corporate Services Corporate Services Manager Ken Smithson Australia Finance and Accounting Manager David Rupokets Papua New Guinea Administration and Personnel Manager Wendy Ho Solomon Islands Assistant General Fund Officer Lester Galo Solomon Islands Assistant Trust Fund Officer Gwen Haro Solomon Islands Assistant Finance Officer Gideon Keketaovia Solomon Islands Personnel Services Officer Micah Alopitu Solomon Islands Accounts Officer Conference/Travel Stephenson Guurau Solomon Islands Office Services Supervisor Davinia Boso Solomon Islands Office Services Assistant 1 Susan Olisukulu Solomon Islands Office Services Assistant 2 Elizabeth Suri Solomon Islands Tea Attendant/Cleaner Iva Mae Solomon Islands Driver/Courier Andrew Aratara Solomon Islands Maintenance Officer John Tommy Solomon Islands Maintenance Assistant Kendall Noda Solomon Islands General Hand Donald Fiubala Solomon Islands Treaties Treaties Administration Multilateral Treaty Manager Kaburoro Ruaia Kiribati Project Development Officer Donald Papaol Papua New Guinea Treaty Clerk 1 Rachel Marsh Solomon Islands Treaty Clerk 2 Janet Inito Solomon Islands n.b. The positions shown in italics - Tuna Industry Adviser and Fisheries Enforcement Adviser are not FFC established positions. They are positions that remain on the establishment records of the entities that fund them. SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 39

43 Obituary Felix Patrick Panjuboe, The sudden and untimely death whilst on duty travel in Apia, Samoa on the 23 March 21 (24 March, Honiara) of the Agency s Multilateral Treaty Manager, Felix Panjuboe left a sad void, not only for his family, but the Agency, his colleagues and professional associates. Felix s career at FFA spanned 11 years beginning when he first joined the Agency in 1989 as the Project Development Officer. However, his wider profile with the Agency and in the region was as the manager of the Multialteral Treaty between Pacific island countries and the United States, a position he had held from 1992 until his death. A well respected work mate, a committed and dedicated professional, Felix s name was and is synonymous with the US Fisheries Treaty and this is recognised by a memorial fund established by the US Industry to commemorate and recognise the service that Felix gave. A Solomon Island national from the village of Kandova in Choiseul Province, Felix, as a senior and respected local staff member advocated for the welfare of FFA local staff. In his capacity as the FFA Local staff association s President he ensured that their interests were protected and taken into account. Educated at St Joseph s in Moli, Choisuel, St John s in the Shortland Islands, St Peter s Primary school and St Joseph s at Tenaru on Guadacanal, Felix progressed to work for the British Colonial government in 1965 and thereafter held various public service posts in the independent Solomon Islands government including Secretary of Finance before joining FFA. Felix s departure was premature but his spirit and commitment to his family, the Agency, the Solomon Islands and the Pacific region is enshrined. He is sadly missed. 4 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

44 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 41

45 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY Summary of Income and Expenditure for the year ended 31 December 21 (USD) General Fund Trust Fund Total INCOME Member contributions 798,92 798,92 Donor 1,74,911 1,74,911 Interest 54,919 32,87 87,789 Programme support 182,696 7, ,51 US Treaty-Service fee 11,4 3,6 132, PD Fund (Aus) 111, ,125 Regional Registration Fee 563,5 563,5 Conference Center 8,693 8,693 Miscellaneous 26,111 2,398 28,59 Prior Year Surplus TOTAL INCOME 1,847,346 1,841,593 3,688,939 EXPENDITURE Executive Management 321,41 21,69 532,1 Economics & Marketing 97,46 713,25 81,296 Legal Services 115, ,881 45,193 Monitoring, Control & Surveillance 131, , ,464 Information Technology & Comms 255,682 16,25 361,932 Corporate & Treaty Services 893, ,13 1,8,24 TOTAL EXPENDITURE 1,813,943 1,84,282 3,654,225 Net Surplus 33,43 1,311 34,714 Housing Fund Income 136, ,718 Expenditure 136, ,718 VMS Fund Income 731,52 731,52 Expenditure 45,612 45,612 Surplus 28,98 28,98 42 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21

46 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY Balance Sheet as at 31 December 21 Current Assets Cash 3,167,96 Receivables 32,64 Others 93,531 Total Current Assets 3,294,41 TOTAL ASSETS 3,294,41 Current Liabilities Creditors & Other liabilities 739,813 Provisions 149,774 Advance funding 1,721,88 Total Liabilities 2,611,467 NET ASSETS 682,574 FUND BALANCE General Funds 24,577 VMS Funds 434,3 Housing Fund 7, ,574 SOUTH PACIFIC FORUM FISHERIES AGENCY (FFA) ANNUAL REPORT 21 43