Fiji bans

[StirCrazy]

"The US has not started the process as of yet. Germany has decided to adopt the recommendation and no longer allows the import of Fiji CITES animals. For the record, when we say "CITES animals", it means live rock and corals. Fish would still be ok to import, but wouldn't be imported due to the high freight rates incurred when shipped a small amount of freight. Rock and coral makes up the vast majority of Fijian exports. It is also important to realize that no country is required to become a member of CITES. For instance, Solomon Islands and the Marshall Islands are not. Fiji was really in no position to join CITES when they did, because they are severely lacking in organization within the government" this post was by Mary on reef.org

now I posted this here because it struck a few questions in my head.

1, as of the 17th of Feb the US has not even started to concider a ban from Fiji and from what is being said on other boards the US is still getting fiji rock.

2, as a country if we ban fiji rock from being brought in because of the CITES saying there paperwork isn't up to what they want, then why are we importing Marshal island rock when they didn't even join?

the 2nd one is almost disturbing in my mind because we are punishing a country that wants to do the right thing but is having a few problems and at the same time rewarding the country who says no to CITES. what does this say to other smaller countries.. well to me it looks like you are better off not getting involved with the organization that wants to ensure you don't destroy your resorses.

just some thought
Steve

[ 24 February 2002: Message edited by: StirCrazy ]</p>