| Press Statement Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC August 9, 2001 Japan Confirms Taking Whales in the North Pacific in 2001The Government of Japan has reported that it has taken 100 minke, 50 Bryde’s and 8 sperm whales as part of the second year of its expanded lethal research program in the North Pacific. Japan also reported that it took 1 sei whale by accident. The United States, along with other nations, has expressed at the highest levels its objection to the expansion of Japan’s lethal research program since Japan first announced the expanded program in 2000. The International Whaling Commission, following review by its Scientific Committee, adopted a resolution in July 2000 urging Japan to refrain from undertaking this program. At its recent 2001 meeting, the International Whaling Commission again adopted a resolution critical of the expansion of Japan’s lethal North Pacific research program. The United States reiterates its strong support of the international community’s call on Japan to cease this lethal research program. In September 2000, the United States certified Japan under the Pelly Amendment to the Fishermen’s Protective Act of 1967 for undermining the conservation program of the International Whaling Commission. The United States continues to consider options open to it in response to Japan’s expanded lethal whaling program in the North Pacific. All whale species are protected under the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act, and sperm and sei whales are listed as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. |
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