Resolution 03/07 Recognising the contributions of David Ardill

The Indian Ocean Tuna Commission,

HAVING responsibility for the sustainable utilisation of tunas and tuna-like fishes in the Indian Ocean;

ACKNOWLEDGING the complexities of managing these high-visibility international fisheries on a rational and scientific basis, particularly given substantial diplomatic, political, economic and public influences;

RECALLING the great economic and social importance of the tuna fisheries to the coastal and island states of the Indian Ocean and other participants in these fisheries;

REAFFIRMING the commitment of all the Members and of others participating in this fishery to the principles of ensuring the sustainability of the tuna resource;

OBSERVING that the success of the many activities developed and implemented, both before and after the establishment of the Commission in 1996, has earned the praise, recognition, respect and admiration of participants, multilateral fisheries management organisations, non-governmental organisations and fishers from around the world;

UNDERSTANDING that the success and recognition of these activities has become a source of pride for all participants in the Commission and its programmes, particularly when the Indian Ocean fisheries are viewed in the context of the many troubled fisheries of the world;

ACKNOWLEDGING that the management of the Indian Ocean tuna fisheries demands the support and commitment of all participants, but that the success of its activities ultimately rests on the shoulders of its Executive Secretary,  on his dynamism, creativity, integrity, and professional expertise;

CONCLUDING that, to a degree that is impossible to quantify, these notable successes, international recognition and the pride of the Members are ultimately attributable to a person who has dedicated a substantial part of his professional life to lead us to where we are today;