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New snapper rules a good compromise
Scott Simpson
MP For Coromandel
New snapper rules a good compromise
Coromandel MP Scott Simpson says new rules for the management of Snapper One fish stocks will see both recreational and commercial fishers share the responsibility for protecting the future of this valuable fishery.
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy announced the changes today following weeks of consultation during which almost 50,000 submissions were received.
The
measures include:
• An increase of 500 tonnes to the
recreational quota
• A short-term reduction in the
recreational daily bag limit from 9 to 7
• An
increased minimum size from 27cm to 30cm for recreational
fishers
• Longterm plans for a 50:50 share of total
quota between commercial and recreational
• Camera or
observer coverage on 100% of all commercial trawl vessels by
1 October 2015
• Reporting of all catch under the
commercial legal size by 1 April 2014
• A “move on
rule” requiring commercial fishers to move from spots
where a significant portion of catch is small juvenile
fish.
The changes to recreational size and bag limits will come into effect from April 2014.
“The people of Coromandel made it abundantly clear that more value needed to be placed on recreational fishing. I think this message was heard loud and clear by the Minister who is now intent on ensuring an even share of this valuable fishery for both sectors instead of the current 64:36 split in favour of the commercial fishers,” Mr Simpson said.
“Most of those who contacted me during the consultation process told me they were more than willing to do their part to protect stocks as long as the commercial sector was also asked to step up on this issue. What the Minister has come up with is a pretty balanced approach with the ultimate aim of putting recreational fishing back on an equal footing with the commercial sector, something most people on the Coromandel will welcome.”
“It is crucial that all stakeholders play their part in ensuring our children and grandchildren can still enjoy this wonderful natural resource.”
ENDS
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