Number 105 (April–June 2003) ISSN 0248-076X Welcome to the latest issue of the SPC Fisheries Newsletter.I would like to draw your attention to the recent SPC publication "Horizontal Longline Fishing manual". The main purpose of this manual is to introduce the horizontal longline fishing method to Pacific Island fishermen,and assist those currently SPC activities Page 2 involved to improve their fishing success,particularly in commercial or semi- commercial situations. This manual is intended to act as a guide to the principles and techniques of good horizontal tuna longline fishing.Environmental and conservation issues and concerns have also been included to raise News from in and around awareness and to present ways to minimise impacts on unwanted species the region Page 15 or the environment as a result of horizontal tuna longline fishing activities. Michel Blanc presents on page 33 the results of the review of the SPC/Nelson Polytechnic Pacific Island Fisheries Officers Training Course. FAD Research Project: Summary It was considered essential by fisheries administrations that a of results at the end of the second comprehensive review be undertaken, with regards to the major changes fisheries in the Pacific have undergone over the last two decades with the year (June 2003) development of subsistence, artisanal and industrial sectors. by Lindsay Chapman, Ian Bertram Jean-Paul Gaudechoux and Brendon Pasisi Page 19 Fisheries Information Adviser (
[email protected]) Aquaculture update for Vanuatu by Ben Ponia Page 27 Conservation through cooperation – The seabird bycatch issue in New Zealand by Alec Woods Page 31 SPC/Nelson course freshened up by Michel Blanc Page 33 The long awaited tuna longline has now been printed.