MPI PRESS RELEASE

Fisheries consultation underway

28 January 2014

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has begun public consultation on new catch limits for rock lobster and scallop stocks, and changes to commercial overfishing penalties for sea cucumber for 1 April 2014. 

MPI is also consulting on proposals to introduce carpet shark, seal shark and hagfish to the Quota Management System from 1 October 2014. MPI invites feedback from stakeholders and tangata whenua on the proposals.

James Stevenson-Wallace, MPI’s Director Fisheries Management, says the Ministry recognises that New Zealand’s fishstocks are a valuable resource and is committed to sustainable fisheries.

“The review of catch limits and other management controls for our fish stocks is an important annual process, and the proposals to introduce carpet and seal sharks into the QMS are consistent with the Ministry’s objectives under the National Plan of Action – Sharks.   These reviews are all about increasing the productivity of the fisheries and ensuring their long-term sustainability.

“A range of management options are presented for each fishstock. I encourage stakeholders and tangata whenua to engage in the consultation process and put forward their views on these proposals.”

Copies of the consultation documents and information on the process for consultation, including deadlines for submissions, can be found on MPI’s website at: http://www.fish.govt.nz/en-nz/Consultations/default.htm

ENDS 

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