Headline: Rec fishers shouldn’t carry the snapper can
Nathan Guy is putting the interests of commercial snapper fishers ahead of recreational fishermen in another example of National cosying up to their corporate mates, says Labour Fisheries spokesperson David Cunliffe.
“The Government has only released three options for snapper bag and size limits for recreational fishermen in its latest round of consultation and all of them are significantly less than the current allowance.
“Nathan Guy expects recreational fishermen to carry the can but there is very little proposed change to the commercial quota.
“This has outraged recreational fishermen. Getting a feed of snapper for the family is a tradition that Kiwis hold dear.
“The Snapper 1 fishery, covering the north east coast of the North Island and the Hauraki Gulf, is the most popular and important recreational fishery nationwide.
“Labour wants an even better fishery to be there for future generations. We support rebuilding the stock. But it is untenable for recreational limits to be reduced while the commercial catch is virtually the same.
“Current snapper stocks in the Hauraki Gulf and Eastern Northland are well below target. They are 24% of natural biomass, below the agreed target of 40%. The Bay of Plenty fishery is at only 6% of original levels.
“Labour wants a sustainable snapper fishery that supports recreational fishing and a strong, sustainable commercial sector. Getting there means everyone must play their part,” David Cunliffe said.
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