Media release from the Ministerial Panel inquiring into Foreign Charter Vessels for immediate release

30 September 2011

FOREIGN CHARTER FISHING VESSEL INQUIRY SUBMISSIONS CLOSE SOON

Written submissions to the Ministerial Panel inquiring into Foreign Charter Vessels fishing in New Zealand’s Exclusive Economic Zone close next week.

Panel Chair Paul Swain said it was important to get input from as many interested parties as possible.

The Inquiry Panel is planning to hold public hearings in Auckland, Wellington, Nelson and Christchurch during October. In addition, the Panel plans to visit fishing vessels.

Mr Swain said all parties making a submission would be given the option of appearing in person before the Panel.

Submissions close at 5 pm on Friday 7 October.

The Panel is due to report its findings and recommendations to the Ministers of Fisheries and Aquaculture and Labour on 24 February 2012.

Further information about the Inquiry, including the Panel’s terms of reference, can be found at www.fish.govt.nz. Written submissions lodged with the Panel will be placed on this website.

Panel Members: Paul Swain (Chair), Sarah McGrath and Neil Walter.

ENDS

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