Minister’s quick action on shark-cage diving, whale watching

Boat-based whale watching and White shark cage-diving activities will continue as usual after a decision to extend for a year the current permits, which were due to expire shortly. The development follows engagement between Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom and the Department of Environmental Affairs after he apparently read about the issue on Tourism Update.

The industry recently expressed concern that the department had not put in place an application process for new permit allocations.

Evelyn Peper, Chairperson of the South African Boat Based Whale Watching Association, told Tourism Update that the action from the Minister ensured that operators would be permitted and able to carry out their activities. She added that he was alerted to the situation after he read Tourism Update and that he took action immediately.
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