Dear media,

In spite of many public comments from New Zealand that it supported aboriginal subsistence whaling, the delegation of New Zealand today voted against Denmark's proposal for Greenland inuit.

Greenland inuit was seeking an annual quota of:

19 Fin whales (from the West Greenland stock);
12 Minke whales (from the Central stock);
200 Minke whales (from the West Greenland stock); and
2 Bowhead whales (from the West Greenland stock).

While some anti-whaling members had concerns, the IWC Scientific Committee said all catches were within the limits of sustainability.

Greenland sought an increased catch to provide for an increase in need for its native peoples. The requirement for whalemeat had grown because of increased population in Greenland and other factors. Greenland's need requirement was now estimated at 790 tonnes per year, while the IWC was supply only 620 tonnes per year through the current regime.

Voting today at the IWC saw 41 votes in favour of Greenland, 11 against and 16 abstentions. New Zealand and Australia voted against Denmark. Japan, the United States, Iceland, Norway, many moderate European nations and other pro-whaling countries supported the proposal.

Congratulations Greenland!

ENDS

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