NSW Fishing Inquiry recommends halt to marine parks

THE Select Committee on Recreational Fishing in NSW tabled its final report, which has called for a halt on the introduction  of more marine parks.

Chairman of the Select Committee, Robert Brown MLC said: "In recent  times the implementation of Marine Parks in New South Wales has caused  concern among recreational fishers. This was made abundantly clear  during the Inquiry, with a number of participants debating the need for  these areas."

"The Committee considered the report of the Independent Review of  Marine Park Science in NSW, which called for a review and change in  emphasis of the strategic framework and research plan guiding the  development and management of marine parks. The report recommends that  sufficient funding be provided to ensure that all the recommendations  made by the Independent Review are effectively implemented."

"Importantly, the report recommends that the NSW Government not  create any new marine parks until the next five-year marine park  research plan is completed."

"The Committee examined the effectiveness and efficiency of the  current representational system of trusts and advisory committees that  advise government departments, and found there was a need for a review  of the current structure. There was a strong call from some inquiry  participants for the establishment of a new independent representative  body able to advocate on behalf of the recreational fishing sector,  which is examined in the report."

"There was also discussion during the Inquiry about fishery programs,  as well as the regulation and management of recreational fishing,  including the need for more compliance officers and concerns about loss  of access to traditional fishing locations."

To download a copy the report visit the website at www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/fishinginquiry. Stay tuned to www.marinebusiness.com.au for further updates.