Fisheries Commission Inaugurates Compounding Offences Committee

The Fisheries Commission has inaugurated the Compounding Offences Committee (COC) to enforce administrative procedures to address fisheries-related offences.

Their inauguration on March 16 was in line with the Fisheries Act and relevant regulations.

Its work is expected to enhance enforcement and promote compliance within the fisheries sector.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Executive Director (Technical), Professor Berchie Asiedu, emphasised that the country is counting on the Committee to discharge its duties with diligence and integrity.

He noted that challenges such as weak enforcement and transparency issues have contributed to lapses in the sector, including those that led to the issuance of the yellow card.

He stressed that members must always prioritise the country’s interests and remain committed to their responsibilities.

He also urged the Committee to report any external pressures that might arise during their work.

In her acceptance remarks, the Chairperson of the Committee, Mrs Marina Appiah from the Office of the Attorney General, described the task ahead as vital to the work of the Fisheries Commission and the sector as a whole.

She noted that the Committee is tasked with determining the suitability of offences for settlement, evaluating the worth of illegally caught fish when needed, and making recommendations to the Executive Director of the Fisheries Commission.

She assured members that they would perform their duties with diligence, integrity, and fairness, while encouraging amicable settlements and helping to reduce the burden of lengthy court proceedings.

The Fisheries Commission expressed confidence in the Committee’s ability to carry out its mandate effectively and to help strengthen enforcement and safeguard Ghana’s fisheries resources.

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