Fri, 2 July 2004
Media Advisory: Advice on use of defensive equipment by Fisheries Officers imminent
The Ministry of Fisheries is currently considering matters relating to the introduction of defensive equipment for use
by Fishery Officers following concern by the Ministry's management and staff about the safety of officers in the field.
The specific equipment that has been under consideration is OC (Pepper) spray and batons.
The Ministry has been conducting analysis and internal consultation on the matter and due to the high level of media
interest in the subject wishes to notify media that it will be making recommendations to the Minister of Fisheries once
current deliberations are complete - in around 10 days. Following this a full statement will be released.
This matter has been the subject of a lengthy and thorough review process, now nearing its conclusion. Representatives
of staff have been fully involved in consultation on this issue. The Ministry of Fisheries does not consider this matter
to be part of current collective agreement negotiations.
ENDS