Bigger fines to protect Island's fish and reefs
Bigger fines to protect Island's fish and reefs Royal Gazette July 5th 2008 By Tim Smith and Amanda Dale Environment Minister El James yesterday tabled legislation aimed at protecting Bermuda's coral reefs for future generations. Maximum fines for breaking regulations under the Fisheries Act 1972 will leap from $5,000 to $25,000, with the maximum jail sentence up from one year to two years, under the Fisheries Amendment Act 2008. Mr. James said offenders targeted in the updated law included people who steal "ornaments" from reefs. "Coral reefs they see on this island are probably the healthiest they see anywhere," Mr. James told the House of Assembly. "These precious natural assets will be protected by this legislation so future residents and visitors can receive the numerous benefits which they provide. "The one thing wit...