Comment from Diane Shepherd

Dear Sirs: I write in support of the proposed amendments to the "Statement of Organization Practices and Procedures" covering the Management Councils of the Magnuson- Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council has repeatedly failed its mandate to conserve marine fish and invertebrate stocks. Instead it is known to serve only the interests of commercial fishers. The most egregious example of its incompetence was the collapse of the lobster fishery in the Northewest Hawaiian Islands, which has contributed to the precipitous decline of the monk seal. It has consistently resisted any measures to protect vulnerable marine species. The Westpac Council operates in secrecy, restricting public access to its decisions and actions, in violation of law and the principles of open government. It has used public funds to lobby against conservation efforts by the Hawaii Legislature and Administration. Taxpayer money is being used to perpetuate a private fief and not to promote the public good. The only way to reform the Westpac Council is with public scrutiny and consistent supervision by its overriding agency. I urge you to adopt the proposed amendments. Thank you, Dr. Diane Shepherd