This is an urgent request for current, perhaps unpublished data, estimates, or expert opinions of the distribution and abundance of dolphin species in the territorial waters of the Solomon Islands. Recently captured dolphins are being readied for export from the Solomon Islands, probably concurrent with the nation becoming a party to CITES about 24 June. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavarehas has called publicly for evidence that such a take would be detrimental to dolphin populations. While proponents of the development of the international trade in dolphins claim populations range from 300,000 to 800,000, and Fisheries Minister Nollen Leni has said publicly that 1,000 dolphins per year would not be detrimental, the evidence for these allegations is unknown. To export the government must first void a ban on exports imposed by the previous government, triggering a possible embargo of tuna products with associated economic consequences. Given the difficulty of international researchers operating in the nation's waters it is possible that little reliable data exists. Data, estimates and opinions from researchers of similar regional populations will have value. The government needs sound, expert advice. If you can provide it please contact: Prime Minister Mannesah Sogavare: <amaesulia@pmc.gov.sb> Fax (-)-677-28154 Fax (-)-677-28626 Whether or not you contact the government directly please pass your comment to me. Thank you, William W. Rossiter President Cetacean Society International P.O.Box 953, Georgetown, CT 06829 USA ph 203-770-8615, fx 860-561-0187 rossiter@csiwhalesalive.org www.csiwhalesalive.org