SUBMISSION BY DAVID FINCHAM: CHAIRMAN AFRICA TILAPIA PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

Dear Mr Mketeni

As Chairman of the African Tilapia Producers Association I would like to request that you re-open the process for public comment on Alien and Invasive Species Regulations. The reason for this request is that as an industry we would like to submit clear proposals for the development of the Tilapia Farming Industry. This industry has not yet been fully represented at National Level. The potential that the Tilapia industry represents to the growth of the freshwater aquaculture sector is enormous. Tilapia has become the single largest farmed species in the World and provides a valuable source of protein, especially in needy communities. The industry locally has failed to develop and grow significantly and as an Association we are committed to driving this growth. Until the debate on Alien and Invasive Species is cleared the industry cannot move forward as there is no clarity on the use of Tilapia sp. for commercial aquaculture.

The main species required for the successful development of the industry are;

· Oreochromis niloticus

· Oreochromis mossambicus

· Tilapia rendallii

Weare aware of Government support for the industry locally and through the Nepad Fish for All programmes. This support needs to be given to an industry that has access to the correct species for the type of system being farmed. Because the Tilapia Industry in South Africa is small at present its representation and focus is only now becoming meaningful, we therefore request further consultation in terms of the Biodiversity Act (10/2004) Draft Alien and Invasive Species Regulations.

Please inform me of your decision to reopen the process and we would request that we be given an opportunity to put forward our proposals.

Yours Sincerely

David Fincham: Chairman Afiica Tilapia Producers Association