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Motion · S6M-09194 · 24 May 2023

Orca Watch 2023

Lodged by Beatrice Wishart Standard Motion 20 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament recognises that Orca Watch 2023 is taking place between 27 May and 3 June 2023; understands that the annual citizen science event is run by the Sea Watch Foundation and sees volunteer observers collect data on whales, dolphins and porpoises in the waters around Caithness, North Sutherland, Orkney and Shetland; further understands that the aim of the event is to increase public awareness of how and when orcas utilise these waters during the summer months and highlight the need for conservation, protection and continued research into the status, distribution and abundance of orca around the UK; notes the recent announcement by the UK Government of its intention to extend the Ivory Act 2018 to ban the import, export and dealing of ivory obtained from orca and other endangered species; believes that human disturbance can disrupt the natural behaviour of whales, dolphins and porpoises and that best practice guidance for observing marine mammals should be followed, such as that provided by Whale and Dolphin Conservation; considers the contribution of citizen scientists to be important in gathering information that furthers understanding of orca, and wishes everyone involved in Orca Watch 2023 a productive and enjoyable observation experience.

Supporters (20)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.