There is some disagreement about the project to revive trawling and whether or not it is unconstitutional. Incopesca’s study to make the technique feasible is not enough, according to the State’s lawyer.
The Attorney General’s Office warned deputies that there are vices of unconstitutionality in the project. The State lawyer’s pronouncement was issued as a legal opinion on October 8th before a consultation of the PAC.
The proposal envisions a way to revive the giving of permits to semi-industrial vessels to trawl for shrimp. Since 2013, the renewal and issuance of such licenses has been prohibited because trawling causes severe damage to the environment by catching a great number of species apart from the shrimp.
The Costa Rican Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture is carrying out a study to ensure sustainability of the activity and demonstrate reduced bycatch of other species. Some say other studies are also needed, such as on the socioeconomic impact of the activity.
