Spear guns need licence renewals

(CNS): The Marine Conservation Board has said that all provisional spear gun licences will be invalid after 31 March 2009. After the end of this month, all remaining provisional licence holders are expected to have a proper licence complete with photographic ID and anyone in possession of a spear gun while using a provisional licence will be breaking the law. The MCB said that anyone wanting an official full licence should make an appointment with the board.

Applicants who must be over 18 years old are required to provide a completed application form; police record, issued no more than six months previously; a spear gun with all its parts, and proof of a previous licence. If the license is approved, a $50 fee will be applicable.

No one may use a spear gun in Cayman waters without a license this also includes Hawaiian sling, polespear, harpoon, hookstick or any device with a pointed end which may be used to impale, stab or pierce any marine life. License holders are still not permitted to use spear guns in any Marine Park, replenishment or environmental zones.

The Marine Conservaition law also prohibits the importation of spear guns or any parts for a spear gun. People using spear guns are limited to three fish per licensed person per day and no one may possess more than six fish that have been caught by a spear gun.

Appointments and licence processing are both scheduled for Thursdays and Fridays between 10am and 4:00pm except on public holidays. For further information, contact: The Marine Conservation Board, Department of Environment, CI Environmental Centre, 580 North Sound Road or call 949-8469.