Turtle power

[NewsWhore]

Environment Minister Jaime David Fernandez Mirabal says that the DR could be heavily sanctioned for failing to implement turtle protection laws. The laws are part of the DR-CAFTA free trade agreement, which also covers environmental issues. As a result Fernandez has announced a plan to confiscate any turtle products or derivatives, especially in the country's small markets. Last month the DR-CAFTA Environmental Issues department said it would take disciplinary action against the DR if it did not ensure that turtles were protected. Biodiversity director at the Dominican Environment Ministry Amarilis Polonia said the decision to confiscate any turtle products or its derivatives is a sign that the country is ready to protect turtles. Asked if this could stop the disciplinary actions against the DR, Polonia said it wouldn't stop it completely, but would help.

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