Hawaiian Fishermen Air Concerns at Maui OHA Meeting

By Wendy Osher

An estimated 85 people attended a community meeting hosted by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) in West Maui last week.

Native Hawaiian fishermen raised concerns at the meeting over a monk seal recovery program, the agency said in a news release.  According to OHA, concerns were aired amid increased protection for the endangered mammal that the fishermen compete with for fish.

They were among 14 groups that gave testimony on a broad range of issues that also included praise for OHA’s support of Na Pua No ‘eau Center for Gifted and Talented Native Hawaiian Children.  Over the last 15 years, OHA has contributed $1.2 million annually to the program.

Kupuna and cultural practitioners also appealed to OHA for continued support for their ongoing efforts to impart valuable knowledge of the Hawaiian culture.

The meeting was held Wednesday, August 17, at the Waiola Church in Lahaina.

*** Supporting information courtesy Office of Hawaiian Affairs.