MP calls for reversal on RecFish decision

IN the wake of news of the Federal Government's scrapping of funding for Recfish Australia, a South Australian MP is urging the Rudd Government to reverse its decision.

Jamie Briggs MP, the Federal Member for Mayo in South Australia has said the scrapping of Recfish funding threatens industry prosperity in the southern state. 

"Each year more than 236,000 South Australians and their families enjoy fishing recreationally, many of whom live on the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island," Briggs said in a statement.

"In addition, the industry greatly supports the economies of these regions through employment, retail sales and tourism.

"Importantly, one of our most vital sectors, the tourism industry is severely lagging behind as a result of the economic downturn and supporting recreational fishing plays a part in its recovery.

"Under the Howard Government the industry received widespread support through the introduction of programs such as the Recreational Fishing Community Grants of which communities in both American River and Victor Harbor received funding.

"The recreational fishing industry should be supported and I urge the Government to reverse its decision to scrap funding for Recfish Australia. It must act quickly to restore the recreational fishing industries faith in Government," he said.