Bans Solely on Recreational Fishers Unfair
Bans Solely on Recreational Fishers Unfair
Discrimination against recreational fishers, particularly in Marlborough, needs to stop immediately, says New Zealand First.
“Since 2008 the recreational fishing public has suffered yearly bans, partial bans, reduced bag limits, and limits on fish size,” says Outdoor Recreation Spokesperson Richard Prosser.
This year’s four-month ban on recreational blue cod fishing in Marlborough comes to an end on December 20. There has been no ban on commercial fishing.
“It’s no surprise that the commercial catch increased 43 per cent last year, at the expense of the rights and access of the recreational public.
“This is discrimination.
“The government should restore year round recreational fishing. If fishing needs to stop for the spawning months, then that should also apply to commercial boats.
“New Zealand First believes that if anyone should be given priority when catch entitlements are being allocated it should be the recreational fisher.
“It just makes common sense that as well as supporting New Zealanders whose business is fishing, we look after the ordinary citizen who just wants to catch a feed for the family,” says Mr Prosser.
ENDS