Ministry Responds To Fishers' Plight

30 May 2001

Commercial fishers unable to pay last month's levies and charges due to short-term cashflow difficulties can expect a helpful response from the Ministry of Fisheries.

Deputy Chief Executive, Peter Murray said the Ministry recognised there may be cases of genuine hardship being experienced by some commercial fishers as the result of the current fuel crisis that prevents them putting to sea.

"I have instructed Commercial Fisheries Services Ltd., (FishServe) who collect cost recovery levies on behalf of the Ministry, to be reasonable in situations where such genuine hardship can be clearly demonstrated."

The fishing industry makes an important contribution to the economy of New Zealand and it is only right that the Ministry takes a realistic approach over what is clearly a short-term cashflow issue outside their control. Fishers faced with genuine hardship should contact Commercial Fisheries Services on (09) 430 1955.