South Sinai governor bans fishing in Ras Mohamed protected area

Dalia Farouk, Friday 20 May 2011

The governor reversed his earlier decision to allow fishing in the area in response to opposition by tourism companies and environmentalists.

Governor of South Sinai Abdel Fadil Shousha re-imposed bans on fishing at Ras Mohamed protected area on Thursday. He ordered all security entities to implement the decision by banning fishermen from entering the protected area and evacuating it of all vessels.

Moreover, Mohamed Salem, general manager of the protected areas said the decision was very much welcomed by those concerned with the environment and tourism and diving activities.

Hisham Gabr, who is responsible for protecting the diving chamber supported the decision, saying it would be welcomed by the public locally and internationally.

Earlier this week, the governor of South Sinai had given permission for 56 fishing boats to enter the protected area, claiming that professionals had been consulted and the decision would not have a negative impact on the fish.

However, the governor's decision received strong objections from tourism companies and environmental activists, who asked the Ministry of Environment to interfere to stop what they considered to be a breach of international law.

Source: Ahram.
Link: http://english.ahram.org.eg/News/12553.aspx.