We are aware of reports of illegal fishing, although we have been unable to substantiate them. The current security situation in the region does not permit access to allow an assessment of these allegations or those of toxic waste dumping.
At the April meeting of EU Foreign Ministers, Somali piracy was discussed, but this did not include discussion of either illegal fishing or toxic waste dumping. Somali fishery issues were discussed during the last meeting of the EU Agricultural and Fisheries Ministers on 23 April 2009.
The purpose of the International Contact Group for Piracy off the coast of Somalia is to create a co-ordinated international approach to Somali piracy. Illegal fishing has been raised as an issue during Contact Group meetings, and is recognised as a factor which needs to be taken into account when constructing a forward strategy for Somalia.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has not commissioned any research to assess the potential effects of illegal fishing in Somali waters on levels of piracy in the region. We are aware that illegal fishing is a concern to many Somalis and that this has also been highlighted as a contributory factor to why some Somalis choose to become involved in piracy. However, the causes of piracy in Somalia are complex. It should be noted that pirates are not specifically targeting fishing vessels.
The Government continue to work with the international community to tackle the root causes of piracy through the provision of humanitarian and development assistance and support for alternative livelihoods.