A series of legislative reforms and stricter enforcement measures are underway as part of efforts to enhance environmental sustainability and safeguard Bahrain’s marine ecosystem.
Oil and Environment Minister Dr Mohammed Bin Daina told the Shura Council members during their weekly session yesterday that new reforms will not only enhance enforcement but also ensure fair and proportional penalties for violations.
He underscored the need for legislative actions, including the enactment and implementation of new regulations that align with global environmental standards.
“We need a robust regulatory framework to strengthen environmental oversight,” he said.
“Enhancing regulatory mechanisms will enable us to effectively monitor and manage environmental compliance.
“By reinforcing inspection protocols and issuing stricter penalties, we hope to deter environmental violations.”
The minister stressed the importance of preserving the nation’s marine environment, which was vital for national food security.
“By protecting our waters, we are ensuring a sustainable food supply for future generations,” he said, calling for stronger partnerships with fishermen and marine associations to enhance environmental awareness and promote sustainable fishing practices.
“We are committed to creating policies that balance economic growth with ecological preservation.
“Through collective action, legislative advancements and rigorous enforcement, we will secure a healthier environment for all Bahrainis.
“It is not like tough measures haven’t been taken, cases have been referred the judicial authority, but things are getting out of control with violators thinking they can do what they want and pay low fines.”
Following his comments, Shura Council members, led by acting chairwoman Dr Jihad Al Fadhel, unanimously approved tougher penalties to stop people from destroying and exploiting marine resources, with violators facing fines of up to BD100,000 or no less than a year in jail, or both.
Government-drafted amendments to the 2002 Fishing Organisation, Catching and Protection Law, based on a parliamentary proposal, were given the go-ahead.
MPs had unanimously approved the amendments on December 31 last year.
- The amended Article 18 will see offenders jailed for no less than a year, or fined BD1,000 to BD3,000, or both, for dispensing waste in the national waters.
- Under amended Article 23, violators will face no less than six months in jail, or a fine of between BD30,000 and BD100,000, or both, for illegal sand dredging and extraction.
- Mass destruction of marine resources using explosives and chemicals, and improper conduct such as blocking the movement of fish and other sea creatures, could lead to violators being jailed for up to a year, or fined between BD1,000 and BD5,000, or both.
- Dealing with banned fishing equipment, neglecting safety regulations and carrying improper tools could lead to an individual facing a year in jail or a fine of between BD500 and BD3,000, or both.
- Repeated offences within a year would lead to the punishment being doubled.
Recommending the amendments for approval, Shura’s public utilities and environment affairs committee chairman Dr Mohammed Hassan said overfishing had become rampant, leading to the destruction of Bahrain’s marine wealth.
“These strict measures are essential to rejuvenate our marine ecosystem,” he had said previously.
Acting Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister and Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Minister Nawaf Al Maawda said the destruction of the marine environment was a vital issue that needed attention in order to protect the sea and its creatures.
Shura member Abdulla Al Nuaimi demanded fishermen install censors, cameras and monitoring equipment. He also proposed more sea patrols throughout the day to catch offenders.
However, Dr Fatima Al Kooheji called for awareness amongst fishermen before punishments are handed out.
Meanwhile, Shura Council members unanimously approved the amended protocol of the World Trade Organisation (WHO) set-up – Marrakesh Agreement to include rules for the fishing sector.
Parliament earlier this month gave a green light to the move.
Both will be now ratified by His Majesty King Hamad.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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