Media Release
11 November 2004

Fisheries Officers To The Foreshore

New Zealand First welcomes the news that the number of fisheries compliance staff is to increase, but having to wait until this time next year for the full complement of staff is unacceptable.

“There is an immediate need for more fisheries officers to be out on patrol,” said fisheries spokesperson Pita Paraone.

“Every day we hear news of serious offenders who are out there stripping our coastline of our precious fisheries resources. The officers are doing their best with the resources they have, but imagine how much more effective they would be if there were more of them.

“It’s quite simple, and New Zealand First has been saying it for years. If we’re serious about combating crime, we have to have more cops on the beat. Make no mistake, poachers are criminals like any other, and the coastline is the frontline for our fisheries compliance officers.

“Next year may be too late for some species. Urgent action is needed to increase surveillance and stop the exploitation that is going on out there.

“I call on all New Zealanders, as they are enjoying themselves on the foreshore and seabed this summer, to report any suspicious fishing activity that they may witness. It’s time to name and shame the greedy criminals who are plundering the life out of our coastline,” said Mr Paraone.

ENDS

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