The Department of Fisheries does not expect Thailand to be hit with a red card by the European Union, citing positive signals from EU representatives over progress in dealing with illegal fishing during their visit to the country this week. esak Pakdeekong, the department’s deputy chief, said Wednesday
The EU technical team had discussed Thailand’s suppression of illegal fishing, where an action plan has been implemented to tackle the problem.
He said the EU had expressed initial satisfaction in a number of areas, including a Vessel Monitoring (VMS) which has been set up to handle 5,200 trawlers operating from Thailand, along with a decree issued last year to push along the government’s work.
“We have seen positive signs from EU representatives, which make us certain that in the worst case, the yellow card will be maintained. It means we have more time to fix all pending problems. We don’t think we will get a red card,” he said.
But Mr Meesak admitted the EU technical team made additional suggestions, such as ways to boost VMS capacity and health and welfare benefits for fishing workers.
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