The seafood industry supports the Ministry for Primary Industries in its compliance investigations involving Hawke’s Bay Seafoods.

The company has pleaded guilty to a number of charges of under-reporting of fish and convictions were entered today in the Wellington District Court.

This is a long running case and it is timely to reach a resolution.

The industry is founded on a sustainable fishery and any illegal behaviour that undermines that cannot be condoned.

Sentencing is due on August 6 when four of the company’s vessels will be considered for forfeiture.