336 EIGHTH PACIFIC SCIENCE CONGRESS 



"That periodical and regular compilation and assessment of 

 quantitative and qualitative information on the fishing industries 

 be recognized as essential prerequisites to regional development." 

 It is still not quite clear what course a short term development in 

 the field of fisheries should take. The necessary basic survey and assess- 

 ment of the fisheries resources and potentialities of the region is still 

 most essential and urgent. 



At its Twelfth Session the South Pacific Commission authorized the 

 appointment of a Fisheries expert for a term of three years, to assist 

 and stimulate fisheries investigation and development in the region, in- 

 cluding inland fisheries and pond culture. It is hoped that these ac- 

 tivities will contribute to an absolute increase in production and to in- 

 creased production per head, permitting an improvement of the nutri- 

 tional value of the islanders' diet. 



