Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick and SNP MEP Ian Hudghton have called for an end to the barbaric practice of shark finning at the start of European Shark Week.

Shark finning although outlawed in the EU is still taking place, and Mr FitzPatrick has tabled a motion in the Scottish Parliament calling for action. Several species of Shark are threatened due to the practice which sees sharks hauled on board ships to have their fins removed before being thrown back into the water, often still alive.

Commenting Joe FitzPatrick said:

‘‘Shark finning is cruel, unnecessary and ultimately very wasteful. During European Shark Week the EU should be looking at ways to ensure the survival of shark species currently endangered rather than turning a blind eye to finning.

‘‘The EU rules that have been in force up to now are unwieldy and riddled with loopholes, and from what we’ve heard they are not being properly enforced or monitored in all EU countries.

‘’I would hope that the motion gains wide support across the parties so that the condemnation of Shark Finning is made clear to the EU.’’

Ian Hudghton added:

‘‘I have been calling for the loopholes in the laws governing shark finning to be closed, but as of yet there have been no moves made by the EU. I will continue to press for action in the European Parliament until we have put a stop to the barbaric practice of shark finning.’’


ENDS

Notes to Editors

Scottish Parliamentary Motion: European Shark Week

Text of Motion:

S3M-00627 Joe FitzPatrick (Dundee West) (SNP):

That the Parliament notes that European Shark Week runs from 8 to 14 October 2007; condemns the practice of shark finning which sees sharks hauled on board ships to have their fins removed before being thrown back into the water, often still alive; notes that, although this practice has been illegal for European fishermen since 2003, the current legislation contains many loopholes and is not being properly enforced or monitored in all EU countries; further notes that many species, such as the hammerhead shark, are now on the endangered list as a result of finning; recognises the vital role that sharks play in the marine ecology, and calls on the European Union to put a stop to this cruel, unnecessary and wasteful practice.