Improvements to the management of our fisheries welcomed

Friday, 11 November 2016, 3:58 pm
Press Release: Seafood New Zealand

Media Release

November 11, 2016

Seafood New Zealand welcomes improvements to the management of our fisheries

Seafood New Zealand welcomes the opportunity to review and refine fisheries management in New Zealand.

The Government proposes three strategic and two regulatory changes that focus on improving information gathering and management, and on ways to further minimise the industry’s environmental footprint, in the Future of our Fisheries report released by the Ministry for Primary Industries today.

“The report brings a renewed focus, for all those who love kaimoana, to work together to further improve New Zealand’s fisheries,” Seafood New Zealand Chairman George Clement said.

“As noted in the Government’s Our Marine Environment report released on October 27, the seafood industry is working tirelessly to reduce its impact on the marine environment. This report offers more avenues for everyone who fishes our waters to make further improvements,” Mr Clement said.

No management system is static and the Quota Management System has evolved significantly since its establishment in 1986. This report proposes the continued development of management arrangements.

“The world is a very different place from when the Quota Management System and the Fisheries Act were implemented. The focus to further modernise our fishery management systems is another positive for all,” Mr Clement said.

“Proposals for measures to improve monitoring of fishing activities at sea are supported in principle, providing policies and settings, particularly for TACCs and deemed values are addressed at the same time.

“We welcome discussion on furthering efficient and effective practices to ensure the management of New Zealand’s fisheries continue to be sustainable.”

The report also emphasises the need for innovation within the sector, specifically in relation to new technology that enables trawl caught fish to be captured alive.

“New Zealand is a world leader in innovation and harvesting efficiencies, but we can always do better and we believe the proposals in this report will lead to further improvements.”

The Future of our Fisheries is a detailed report and industry will take time to confer and consider its implications before making further comment.

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