Thai Union has welcomed the recent legislation issued by the Royal Thai Government on fisheries which it said should encourage ongoing enforcement of the law and continuous improvement throughout the industry.
The new legislation Royal Ordinance on Fisheries B.E. 2558 (2015) aims to establish good governance in in fisheries management by combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, ensuring effective monitoring and control and surveillance of fishing activities.
It also aims to strengthen traceability, eliminate forced labour and improve welfare and working conditions and put into place measures that allow for proper prosecution of anyone involved in the act of human trafficking.
Thiraphong Chansiri, president and CEO of Thai Union, said: “The new legislation is an important step towards consolidating a full traceability system within the Thai seafood industry from vessel to processing facilities. This includes the inspection of the whole supply chain as well as creating a level playing field for all operators and eliminating those who do not abide by the law, respect human rights or who operate in an unethical manner.”
The new legislation include sanctions which can suspend a vessel’s fishing license or permit for up to 90 days if the licensee or permit holder does not comply with the Royal Ordinance and related laws.
If the licensee or permit holder re-commits a violation, the license or permit will be revoked.
Thai Union said it works hard to ensure that all its operations in Thailand abide by local and international laws to ensure that no child or forced labour is used and that its workers can work in safe conditions with the correct legal documentation and contracts in place.
