(N de P / 14-07-10)  Every October, members of the European association Shark Alliance organize a week of activities for shark defenders and other enthusiasts of these animals. The purpose is that people can know more about sharks and how to protect them, trying them joining the cause to ask the creators of the fisheries policy for the conservation of shark populations.

During the European Shark Week 2009 about 300 activities were done in 15 European countries and over 93,000 people signed a petition addressed to the Spanish authorities, which was delivered this year. The petition called for Spain to end its opposition to strengthen the fining ban and so put back on track the EU towards a more effective regulation.

For more information about the activities done the last year, pictures and results of the colouring contest that was held among the smaller defenders, visit www.semanaeuropeadeltiburon.es

This year we have to continue pressing.

More than three years ago, come Members of the European Parliament appealed to the European Commission for strengthen the fining ban in the EU, which currently is completely incomplete and does not fulfil its function of protecting sharks. Next year, the European Parliament will have to vote on a new regulation that the Commission is drawing up and will soon be published for evaluation.

We must make sure that the MEP, as our representatives that we choose continue pressing on this issue that they decided more than three years ago and they can complete it.

Shark Alliance association will keep working with MEP to assure their support. However, this October we will be glad if many other voices would support us.

Write on your diaries the week 9-17 October. And continue visiting this website to get more information about plans, ideas, materials and call to action. If you want more information, or better, offer your help, contact us.

Julia Santana Garcon
Shark Alliance
Spanish National Outreach Coordinator
julia.santanagarcon@yahoo.es