On June 6, 2012, the C-NLOPB received reports that harvesters in NAFO Zone 3K had observed the seismic vessel MV Sanco Spirit traversing an active fishing area with streamer deployed. This vessel is being operated by Multi Klient Invest AS (MKI) to conduct a seismic program pursuant to the requirements and conditions of a Geophysical Program Authorization issued by the C-NLOPB.

The C-NLOPB conducted an investigation into the reports and met with stakeholders this week. As a result of the investigation, the C-NLOPB has issued a Notice of Non-Compliance in respect of MKI’s Geophysical Program Authorization. We followed this up with a meeting with senior MKI managers to ensure that they were aware of our concern with such behaviour. We strongly advised them that further incidents of non-compliance will prompt the Board to consider stronger enforcement action, which could include suspension or cancellation of the authorization.

Media Contact:
Sean Kelly M.A.,APR, FCPRS
Manager of Public Relations
(709) 778-1418
(709) 689-0713 (cell)
skelly@cnlopb.nl.ca