Iceland’s whaling plans provoke internal dispute

SIKU CIRCUMPOLAR NEWS SERVICE

Icelandic fleets want to hunt 250 whales next year: 100 minke whales, 100 rorquals and 50 Sei whales.

Iceland plans to ask the scientific committee of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) to grant the go-ahead for the hunt when the group meets later this year.

Iceland’s membership in the IWC gives it the right to hunt whales for scientific purposes despite IWC objections, but it must first present a hunting and research plan.

The Icelandic Tourist Industry Association is already protesting this plan.

“Whale-watching has become one of the most popular tourist activities in Iceland, providing considerable income for the economy, as well as creating a very positive image for Iceland,” a statement from the tourism group said.