16/1/01
Fisheries Minister Monty House today said the Coalition Government was committed to maintaining and enhancing recreational fishing opportunities and the benefits they brought to the community through on-going and new initiatives during the next term of Government.
“The recreational fishing industry is big business; it provides this State with an estimated economic boost of more than $0.5 billion annually,” Mr House said.
“Western Australia’s diverse aquatic environment is the envy of many countries, offering a wide range of recreational fishing experiences to more than 600,000 recreational fishers.
“To ensure a sustainable recreational fishing industry, this Government will increase dedicated recreational fisheries research monitoring which will be centered on key species and fishing areas of importance to recreational fishers. This initiative will have a volunteer focus with a strong community-based approach.”
The award winning Volunteer Fisheries Liaison Officers program (VFLO) will be enhanced to increase its excellent contribution to community education and in providing vital feedback.
“The Government also recognises the role and importance of peak industry and community-based groups and will continue to fund regional the Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee and its network of Regional Advisory Committees, and Recfishwest to represent recreational fishing interests,” Mr House said.
“The Regional Recreational Fishing reviews will provide a regional management framework for the protection of WA’s recreational resource.”
Mr House said funding to appoint eight new fisheries officer positions within Fisheries WA would be made available to ensure a greater education and compliance of fishing regulations, further protecting the State’s fish stocks.
Recreational fishers could also look forward to greater fishing experiences, with a commitment to increase fishing opportunities through stock enhancement programs.
“The Government’s on-going support for the recreational fishing industry means that fishers in this State can continue to enjoy the benefits of one of the worlds best managed fishing resources,” Mr House said.
Media contact: Julie Cole 9481 2044
