Fisheries Policy - Applying the precautionary approach in the Fisheries Act

The Government recently announced its intention to amend the Fisheries Act 1996, to better reflect the “precautionary approach” to fisheries management decision-making.

This approach is recognised in a number of international agreements on fisheries management, and is supported by New Zealand. However, there are concerns that the present wording of the Fisheries Act does not clearly reflect the approach, in situations where information is uncertain or limited.

Further information on the issue, and the Government’s decision, can be found in the relevant Cabinet paper.