29 August 2007

Set-net ban the only option to save dolphins from extinction

The Green Party hopes the conservation measures proposed in the Hector's Dolphin Threat Reduction strategy released today are not a case of too little far too late.

"While we welcome the proposals, it has taken far too long to get to this point. The Ministers of Conservation and Fisheries deserve credit for producing options that give the dolphins a chance of survival, but any final decisions need to be bold to ensure that the fishing industry can no longer get away with this needless slaughter and march to extinction," Greens' Conservation and Fisheries Spokesperson Metiria Turei says.

"Set-nets continue to be the greatest threat to the dolphins, but I fear any moves to ban them here will be vehemently opposed by the industry. A nationwide set-net ban, out to 12 nautical miles is posed in only one of the three options proposed by the Ministers, but it is obvious that it is the only option that will save the species.

"Some other fishing practices can pose threat to the dolphins, and the Government should follow Australia's lead and provide assistance to fisheries to move to the cost effective alternative methods.

"The plan also fails to recognise the impact of seabed sand-mining and oil and gas exploration. For example, it puts complete reliance on a wholly voluntary code of practice for seismic testing at levels that are known to stress marine mammals. This is simply not good enough.

However, the Greens are pleased with that the plan proposes to establish a sanctuary covering the range of the remaining 111 Maui's dolphin, and further sanctuaries for Hector's in Marlborough and Southland.

"A nationwide set-net ban and sanctuary will restrict the activities that threaten the Hector's and Maui's dolphins with extinction, while still allowing responsible people to continue to enjoy the sea. They are also key to enable the dolphins to extend their range so that Hector's and Maui's can once again interact. Wouldn't it be fantastic if Hector's dolphin could once again visit Wellington Harbour?

"Given that the document is very long and complex, running to 300 pages, we plan to make an in-depth analysis of it and provide advice on our website for those wanting to make submissions.

"We are pleased that the Government's pledge to have the plan in place by Christmas, in response to Greens' questioning in Parliament back in June, looks like it may transpire. We only hope the Ministers have the courage to stand up to make the right decisions, Ms Turei says.

ENDS

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