BY ALFRED PAGEPITU
GIZO
THE Western Province Premier, David Gina is calling on Beche-de-mer buyers who has an interest to operate in the Province to let the provincial government know of their presence. He said this is for formalities purposes and that a license is issued to them before they carry out their operation.
This ordinance applies to all Beche-de-mer buyers outside and within the province who are operating in a commercial or residential location within the Province, Gina said.
He urges buyers who are yet to meet the process in licensing to do so immediately at the provincial government treasury office.
“I wish to urge all beche de mer buyers in the province to pay license and get on with business.”
“Western provincial Government is well aware that there are buyers out there who are operating under the cover of huge businesses,” Gina said.
He said buyers must not do that.
“We have a small business community and no one can get away with this” said Gina.
He said the central Government recently lifted a moratorium three weeks ago following recommendations from the Department of Fisheries in Honiara.
Gina said according to the latest report from the scientific community, the much sought after marine product is declining.
Gina called on all buyers to meet their legal obligations such as paying for a license before getting on with business under the Western Provincial Government Business Ordinance.
Meanwhile, Western Provincial Government Communication Office confirmed that more than ten beche de mer buyers have fully complied with their requirements.
Five thousand dollars is the fee. This applies to anyone dealing with bech de mer. Beche de mer is listed as an endangered marine species.
The Treasury Section in Gizo confirmed a license for a beche de mer product is specific to a region like Gizo.
Interested buyers must get a standard form to fill-in thus; the buyer must specify the region operations will take place in the province.
