Media Statement
For immediate release
Monday, 2 August, 2004

Baldock backs call to protect NZ fishing industry

United Future's Larry Baldock today backed a call for New Zealand fishing boats and crew to get the major share of quota and fishing opportunities.

"Damian O'Connor has it dead right when he calls on his own government to revise its policy on foreign-owned, joint-venture fishing operations," Mr Baldock, United Future's fisheries spokesman, said.

"This is a huge and important New Zealand resource and we have to make sure that New Zealanders are the ones who gain for it first and foremost."

Mr Baldock said that at least half the crew on all vessels fishing in New Zealand waters should be New Zealanders.

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