National’s ‘Fishing for Votes’ Policy Raises Concern

National’s new fishing policy is yet another ‘steal’ from New Zealand First, and they can’t even get it right, says New Zealand First Leader Rt Hon Winston Peters.

“National is casting a line out to recreational fishers, who they have ignored till now - less than two weeks out from the election.

“New Zealand First’s policy to push trawlers out past 12 miles or use a depth limit, while allowing limited commercial inshore fishing for the local trade, is a lesson in common sense for National.

“National is running scared, particularly since they cut the snapper bag limits, so they are now creating new recreational fishing areas in the Marlborough Sounds and Hauraki Gulf with commercial fishing banned.

“They say they will compensate quota holders, but the commercial boats will just move territory and head to the Kaipara or the Bay of Plenty.

“Fishers there will be appalled by the prospect of trawler numbers doubling inshore.

“New Zealand First has a comprehensive fisheries management policy which has been worked out in close consultation with the recreational fishing sector, and with the goal of protecting all interests, including the commercial industry.

“As usual National is short on vision just as they were when they stole our policy on free GP visits for primary school children, and that’s not taking effect till mid next year.”

ENDS

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