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EDS Welcomes New Science Advice On Commercial Fishing But More Is Needed
The
Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor, Professor Dame
Juliet Gerrard yesterday released a report on the Future of
Commercial Fishing in Aotearoa New Zealand which was
prepared on the request of the Prime
Minister. The
report contains a set of recommendations including the
development of an Oceans Strategic Action Plan, applying an
ecosystems approach to fisheries management, refining the
regulatory framework for fisheries management, establishing
a centralised data platform, and taking a more holistic and
strategic approach to marine research and
innovation. “EDS
welcomes the report which highlights the need to address the
environmental impacts of commercial fishing activity and
adopt more ecosystem-friendly fishing methods,” said EDS
CEO, Gary
Taylor. “We have
been increasingly concerned about the degradation of our
marine areas, and the ongoing use of damaging fishing
methods like bottom trawling and dredging, so the report is
timely. “The
report contains an in-depth review of how science can be
better deployed to support fisheries management which is
very helpful. But as Dame Juliet acknowledges, the purpose
of the report was to provide science advice and it
specifically excludes a review of the quota management
system. The management of recreational fishing was also
outside the scope of the
report. “Our work
on the quota management system, which we summarised in
Voices from the Sea, demonstrated that it is no
longer fit for purpose and a broader review of the fisheries
management system is urgently
required. We
urge the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, Hon David Parker
to establish such a review which could be modelled on the
very successful Randerson Panel Review of the resource
management system. The Prime Minister’s Chief Science
Advisor’s report would provide a very useful input into
such a review,” concluded Mr
Taylor.
Environmental Defence Society
EDS speaks for the environment. It has influence.
Since 1971, EDS has been driving environmental protection in Aotearoa New Zealand
through law and policy change. That's why it's one of this country's most influential non-
profit organisations when it comes to achieving better environmental outcomes.
EDS has expertise in key disciplines including law, planning, landscape and science. It
operates as a policy think-tank, a litigation advocate, and a collaborator – bringing together
the private and public sectors for constructive engagement.
EDS runs conferences and seminars on topical issues, including an annual Environmental
Summit and the Climate Change and Business Conference.
EDS is a registered charity and donations to it are tax-deductible.
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