Fisheries observers

The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), in a circular memo over the weekend approved the extension of the measure, which was supposed to have ended on 31 May.

"This decision takes effect immediately once the Commission has endorsed it. The Commission will review its decision by July 31, 2020," WCPFC Chair, Jung-re Riley Kim said in the memo.

"In undertaking such review, the Commission should take into consideration Article 30 of the Convention and the safety and livelihoods of ROP observers, in particular SIDS observers."

William Naviti said the two men were returning from the Cook Islands and Tahiti, where they had been observers on Vanuatu-flagged fishing boats.

Earlier, the Daily Post reported Air Vanuatu as saying the men were intoxicated and abusive leading to them being removed from the flight by police.

Mr Naviti said it was their first trip overseas.

An investigation was underway into their conduct, and a decision would then be made whether they could return for a second duty, he said.