The Council of Agriculture has not yet said whether a group of Taiwanese fishermen who recently landed on Taiping Island will face any disciplinary action.
Several fishing boats sailed to the island on July 20 to assert Taiwanese sovereignty after the Hague Tribunal ruled that it is only a reef. The island is the largest in the Spratly Islands, a group of islands in the South China Sea. The islands are claimed in whole or in part by a number of countries including Taiwan, China, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
The fishing boats returned to a hero’s welcome on July 31. But the fishermen may face disciplinary action because one of the ships was travelling illegally. The ship could face the revocation of its operating license or a fine.
Agriculture Minister Tsao Chi-hung said that Taiwan is ruled by law, and that it will follow the law in dealing with the matter. He also told the public not to spread rumors before an official decision is announced.