Proposed Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary
With no forewarning from Government the industry needs time to consider the full implications, Seafood New Zealand Chairman George Clement said.
“The seafood industry is committed to rational and effective marine conservation measures. These include a representative network of BPAs (Benthic Protected Areas) established at the industry’s behest and implemented throughout 30 per cent of the Exclusive Economic Zone, covering an area larger than the Kermadecs.
“Trawling has been excluded from the Kermadec region since 2007 and no mining is occurring there.
“This decision will exclude New Zealand longlining and trolling companies catching pelagic species such as tuna under sustainable quotas.
“We look forward to the Government’s compassionate treatment of those New Zealand families whose livelihoods will be impacted.”
ENDS