Following data being published by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) in relation to the number of Harbour Porpoise accidentally caught by fishermen, known as bycatch, in the Celtic Sea, the Harbour Porpoise Champion and Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy, Janet Finch-Saunders, has written to the Welsh Government to highlight this issue.
Commenting on the matter Janet said:
“As Harbour Porpoise Champion I am proud to have routinely highlighted the impact that human activity has on these fascinating animals. Given that Wales is facing a nature emergency it is vitally that we all play our part in protecting species such as this from further decline.
“It is truly shocking to see that over 700 of these incredible animals have been identified as victims of bycatch. It is vitally important that the Welsh Government take the necessary steps to protect this species from further disruption from human activities.
“ I have now written to the Minister for Climate Change to urge her to look into this matter and to outline what steps can be taken by the Welsh Government to safeguard Harbour Porpoise in the Celtic Sea.”
ENDS
