Interim measures pending completion of sanction proceedings

(1) When any sanction proceedings have been initiated by the BHSFU, the Director shall request the International Merchant Marine Registry of Belize (IMMARBE) to suspend all processes related to any changes in the name, ownership or flag of the vessel until the completion of all such proceedings. (2) Where a vessel owner, operator, master, or legal representative is suspected of having committed or is caught in the act while committing a serious violation, a full investigation shall be initiated and, during such time, the Director shall, depending on the gravity of the serious violation, take any of the following immediate enforcement measures or a combination thereof– (a) recalling the vessel to port; High Seas Fishing 19 (b) prohibiting the vessel from sailing; (c) ordering the discontinuation of fishing (d) seizing the fishing gear, and/or fisheries products; or (e) suspending the authorization to fish. (3) The interim enforcement measures shall be of such a nature as to prevent the continuation of the serious violation concerned and to allow the BHSFU to complete its investigation. (4) The Director may also utilize the immediate enforcement measures outlined in subregulation (2) above for any other minor or serious violation.