Ministry consulting on future management of New Zealand's fisheries

Fri, 10 Dec 2004

The Ministry of Fisheries today released two major consultation documents, its draft Statement of Intent 2005-08 and a discussion document on Stock Strategies, which signal how the Ministry proposes to sustainably manage New Zealand Fisheries in the future.

The Statement of Intent describes the strategic direction being taken by the Ministry in the management of New Zealand's fisheries resources. It clearly defines the respective roles and responsibilities of the government, iwi and other stakeholders in contributing to the management of our fisheries. It also describes the Ministry's proposed services, and their estimated costs for 2005/06.

Stock strategies are the way the Ministry proposes to implement the Statement of Intent for specific fisheries.

Acting Chief Executive, Stan Crothers, said the Ministry wants to move forward with a plan that ensures fisheries resources remain sustainable. He also said it was important to consider all risks and to have clear and transparent objectives.

"Stock Strategies represent the next step in the evolution of fisheries management in New Zealand. By developing stock strategies we will improve the effectiveness of decision-making, by using the best available information."

The Ministry proposes to develop stock strategies across all fisheries over the next five years, with the first five being developed by August 2005.

The Ministry of Fisheries is looking for comment on the overall approach being taken to stock strategies and welcomes submissions. The Ministry's Stock Strategies Consultation Document, and Draft Statement of Intent 2005/08 are available on request from the Ministry and on its website (www.fish.govt.nz ).

ENDS

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