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Seafood industry committed to ongoing monitoring trials
10 May 2013
New Zealand seafood industry
committed to ongoing monitoring trials in partnership with
Government
The New Zealand seafood industry says it is
committed to continuing its work with Government in
developing innovative approaches to fisheries data
collection, following the recent completion of an electronic
monitoring trial alongside traditional observers in the
Timaru set net fishery.
“As an industry we are committed to sustainable fishing and a key part of that is effective monitoring that provides robust information, especially in relation to protected species,” says Tim Pankhurst, Chief Executive of Seafood New Zealand.
The trial took place over five months and recorded two incidental captures of Hector’s dolphins, one live release and one mortality.
“While any fishing-related death
of marine mammals is deeply regrettable, the trials should
give the public confidence that fishers take their
environmental responsibilities seriously.”
Mr Pankhurst said the trials, combined with the additional research on the abundance of Hector’s dolphins, will lead to better data on this protected species and ensure any decisions are evidence-based.
The seafood industry, along with the Ministry for Primary Industries, has invested approximately $300,000 into the electronic monitoring programme with further electronic observations expected later this year. The fishers in Timaru have also invested in pingers which emit sounds intended to warn dolphins about nets.
ENDS
Seafood New Zealand
Seafood New Zealand’s primarily focus is deepwater and inshore wild capture fisheries, but works closely with other sectors to ensure a thriving and sustainable seafood sector that is valued by New Zealanders and our trading partners.
New Zealand's seafood industry plays a key role in the country's economy, contributing around $2 billion in export earnings and employing more than 16,500 people, who provide New Zealand and the world with high quality, nutritious and great tasting seafood.
The seafood industry is committed to providing high quality careers in local communities through our sustainable and innovative provision of safe seafood.
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