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By daybreak
Published: February 2, 2009
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Iceland has announced an increase in its cod fishing quota from 130,000 to 160,000 tons.

The Icelandic Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture announcement states; "Although the recovery of the benchmark and spawning stock of cod will be slower than planned, this decision is in line with official objectives for sustainable fishing of cod."

The release goes on to explain that "This decision has been taken not least in view of the economic difficulties currently facing the Icelandic nation, but also in consideration of positive indications as to cod stock size resulting from trawl service of demersal species this past autumn. Those assessments indicated that the overall cod index was considerably higher than in preceding years."

Also announced was news that Icelandic whaling quotas have been increased, including the fin whale quota, which was increased up to 150 whales. BBC has reported that conservationists are angered because, "Internationally it is listed as an endangered species, and the quota of 150 is a major escalation on the total of seven that have been caught over the last three seasons."

Following significant banking failures in the nation, Icelandic Prime Minister Geir Haarde announced his resignation on January 25th, 2009. The nation plans to hold elections in May, 2009.

for more information see: http://eng.sjavarutvegsraduneyti.is/news-and-articles/nr/9547
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