However, like the previous years, it is unlikely that the whalers will fill their quota as the weather conditions, fuel costs, an inadequate geographical distribution of the quotas, and a crunch in processing and distribution channels.

Norway, who has resumed commercial whaling in 1993, argue that the hunting is neccessary as there are too many Minkes and they are threathening the fish stocks.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Coastal Affairs said in a statement; "The quota is within an interval that researchers believe provides satisfactory security in regards to protecting the minke whale stocks."

Greenpeace said it "regretted" the Norwegian government's decision to maintain the whaling quota; "The government's adherence to whaling is pure symbolic politics, giving the appearance of supporting embattled coastal communities on a high profile issue," Greenpeace said.

Truls Gulowsen, leader of Greenpeace in Norway said; "Quotas have rarely been met since Norway resumed whaling in 1993. There is no market for whale meat."

Iceland stopped whaling in August 2007 citing lack of markets.

Sources:

International Herald Tribune

AFP

Sydney Morning Herald