An Ilan-based fishmonger who was formerly convicted of trading in endangered species, whale meat in fact, has in recent years turned wildlife conservationist after seeing the error of his ways. This poacher turned game keeper is a founding member of the Chung Hua Cetacean Society and actively protects the rights of whales and dolphins.
Lin Tsung-ho, the fisherman, was given an eight month suspended sentence by the Taiwan High Court for killing and selling whale and dolphin meat. Leniency was granted in consideration of Lin's remorse, evidenced by his subsequent participation in conservation work.
During the trial, Lin admitted that he had bought fish that could have included whale and dolphin and then resold it -- mainly as fish cuts -- to other fishmongers in central and southern Taiwan for human consumption and animal feed.
Lin, however, said that at that time he didn't know what fish were considered endangered species. After being charged, Lin was prompted to educated himself. He read books about whales and dolphins, approached zoologists and found the Chung Hua Cetacean Society.
His efforts led to his becoming a cetacean conservationist and in less than four years he has earned himself considerable local renown as a friend of whales.
According to Lin's wife, he frequently drops whatever he is doing, day or night, in order to pitch in as a volunteer for rescue work at beaches where whales or dolphins have been beached.
Now as a fish vendor/conservationist, Lin has called on relevant government agencies to work out policies seeking a balance between commercial fishing and conservation, according to the Central News Agency.
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