Final decision to grant marine farm in Jackson Bay

13 September 2006

From the Ministry of Fisheries

Final decision to grant marine farm in Jackson Bay

The Ministry of Fisheries has confirmed its preliminary decision to approve the first major marine farm development on the West Coast of the South Island. The 45.5 ha farm is located about one kilometre offshore in Jackson Bay, north of Fiordland.

On 1 June 2006 the decision to grant preliminary approval for the farm was announced and the public had an opportunity to present submissions to the Ministry of Fisheries before a final decision was made.

"Our open process means all interested parties had the opportunity to consider and comment on the preliminary decision," says Ministry of Fisheries' aquaculture manager Dan Lees.

"We received two submissions, one from Jackson Bay Mussels Ltd supporting their application and the other from Runganga O Makaawhio stating their interest in ensuring the farm would not affect the mussel beds at Neils Beach that are used by the Runanga.

"These submissions were considered carefully, along with all earlier information received by the Ministry, before the final decision was made. We believe the farm will not unduly affect the fishing in the area, or the marine environment and protected species in the area."

ENDS

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