Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Governor Lemanu P. S. Mauga and U.S. Department of Commerce- NOAA representatives took a step last week towards addressing concerns and fostering collaboration between the federal agency and American Samoa over the proposed Pacific Remote Islands National Marine Sanctuary.

Meeting with Gov. Lemanu, staff members and a number of Directors on August 4, 2023 via zoom and in person were Dr. Richard W. Spinrad, Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere & NOAA Administrator, and other members of his staff.

According to a press release issued by the Governor’s Office, the discussions centered around President Joe Biden’s call to initiate a new National Marine Sanctuary around the Pacific Remote Islands and its potential impact on the local community and economy, particularly the vital canneries industry.

Acknowledging the importance of an open and inclusive dialogue, Gov. Lemanu expressed appreciation for the opportunity to address concerns and share insights regarding the potential consequences of the proposed sanctuary. "The livelihoods of over 2000 workers at the canneries are at stake," Governor Lemanu underscored. "We wish to be part of a process that takes our perspective into account, which was lacking from the inception of the National Marines Sanctuary declaration."

In response, Dr. Spinrad conveyed his condolences and recognized the urgency of the matter.

“I am personally dedicated to ensuring that the right steps are taken moving forward," he stated.

 "We understand the economic significance of the canneries to your region.

“We are working to gather scientific and economic information to make informed decisions.

“We are dedicated to ensuring an inclusive and consistent process, not only for American Samoa but also for CNMI and Guam."

Governor Lemanu expressed gratitude for the newfound dialogue, highlighting the importance of a cooperative approach. "I want to thank NOAA for their time and attention today," he commented.

"This is a step forward in finding common ground and ensuring a prosperous future for our people and our economy."

NOAA Assistant Secretary Jainey Bashivi expressed the importance of having the right information on both ends before making decisions on how to execute the President’s initiative.

“This initiative has started with the President’s call, and we are now working backwards to ensure that we are inclusive of the Pacific Islands as well as their concerns,” stated Bashivi.

She continued, “We want to host a workshop in American Samoa and have that dialogue with your government and your people.”

NOAA has also stated that they have transmitted all correspondence that was sent by the leaders of the Pacific Territories, including the report from Assistant Secretary Kelly Kryc who was in American Samoa earlier this year.

As the discussions continue, both parties remain dedicated to exploring solutions that balance the preservation of the marine ecosystem with the economic well-being of the local community.

Others in attendance were Director of the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, Makeda Okolo; Bettilou Taylor, American Samoa liaison in Washington D.C.; NOAA Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Director Lauren Wenzel; Chief of Staff Loa Tuimavave Tauapai Laupola; Attorney General Fainuulelei Alailima-Utu; Department of Marine & Wildlife Resources (DMWR) Director Taotasi Archie Soliai, Governor’s Office Chief Counsel Kristi Thaxton and Governor’s Office Counsel Terry VanEaton, Lafaele Keniseli, and Superintendent of the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, Atuatasi-Lelei Peau.