Snapper consultation to begin next month
Hon Nathan Guy
Minister for
Primary Industries
15
June 2013
Media Statement
Snapper consultation to begin next month
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy
says no decisions have been made yet on any changes to
regulations in the Snapper 1 area, but formal consultation
will begin next month.
“Overall the stock is
growing and in good health. This is a highly valuable
fishery and we need to ensure the benefits are shared
sustainably amongst all sectors.
“The new plenary
science report shows the stock is rebuilding well, and
anecdotal evidence suggests it is in good health.
“However challenges still remain. Overall
snapper numbers are up 70% over the last 15 to 25 years, but
are still only about half the level of the current
management target.
“There will be a full
consultation process beginning in July, covering a wide
range of options – including increases or decreases to
both commercial and recreational limits.
“These options are yet to be finalised, but will
include keeping the status quo.
“An option of
reducing recreational bag limits may be one of the options
floated, but this could be combined with an increase to the
overall recreational tonnage. This would allow more people
to enjoy this valuable natural resource.
“I
encourage everyone to have their say when consultation
begins in July, and caution people against jumping to
conclusions.
“Any decisions will be based on the
best available science, and be widely consulted on. We need
to ensure this valuable fishery is sustainable for future
generations.
“I look forward to final advice
being provided to me in September so that any new rules are
in place for the new fishing season beginning in October,”
says Mr
Guy.
ENDS