Whale lifting ban debated

The Icelandic government lifted the ban on hunting whales yesterday and allowed Hvalur hf. to hunt 39 whales in commercial purpose. The decision is highly debated both in Iceland and in the foreign press. „We are very happy about the Government's decision and that we can resume whale hunting," said Friðrik J. Arngrímsson, the CEO of The Federation of Icelandic Fishing Vessel Owners.

„We loose over ten billion a year because of the growth of the whale stock, compared to if we had continued hunting. It is very important for the ecology of the sea that these animals should be kept within certain limits," Friðrik continues.

Friðrik claims that even though there is no market for whale meat, it will benefit the economy greatly because of the effect the reduced whale stock would have on the fishing industry. „There is not a doubt in my mind that it will benefit the Icelandic economy" but he is also certain that there is a market for whale meat. „Kristján Loftsson, owner of the whaling vessels, knows the Japan market better than anyone and if he certain he can sell the meat there I have no reason to doubt him," says Friðrik who is not worried about loosing the debate on the international scene.

„Most people in the world are not thinking about this issue and those who are will realize that we are not putting the whale stock in danger. This will probably have some negative effects but there is so much more at stake," says Friðrik.

„This decision will definitely offend some people but when those who are willing to discuss this matter understand the reasoning," says Eggert B. Guðmundsson, CEO of the fishing plant HB Grandi. „But it is difficult to reason with the emotional side of things." Eggert says it is only natural to control the whale stock because it affects the fishing stock in the sea.