13 July 2005
Changing ocean temperatures a threat to NZ fishing
Changing ocean temperatures are a genuine threat to New Zealand's fishing industry, Fisheries Minister David Benson-Pope
said today.
He described National's continued call to scrap New Zealand's involvement in the Kyoto Protocol as ill-informed and
completely short sighted.
Mr Benson-Pope said scientists have revealed a deep warming of the Tasman Sea since 1996, possibly as a result of El
Nino weather patterns. This warming has coincided with a drop-off in Hoki numbers.
"Our understanding of complex ocean systems is still very limited but this highlights the threat ocean temperature
change presents," said Mr Benson-Pope. "I have huge concerns for the sustainability of deepwater species threatened by
changes in ocean temperature.
"Ignoring the threat of global warming now would be a disaster for future generations of New Zealanders, including the
fishing industry.
"Dr Brash can't keep burying his head in the sand on climate change. Even Dr Brash's role-model George Bush has
acknowledged global warming is a threat to the planet."
Mr Benson-Pope pointed to the ability of businesses whose competitiveness would be at risk from the carbon tax to
negotiate exemptions, and to the pilot grants scheme to help energy intensive industries, including the fishing
industry, to adjust.
"I understand that discussions have already occurred with the fishing industry," said Mr Benson-Pope. "Dr Brash should
stop his scaremongering that fishing industry jobs would be exported elsewhere.
"It is clear that National's approach of doing nothing, really isn't an option at all. This issue requires leadership
and instead Dr Brash proposes running up the white flag of surrender."
ENDS