Aquaculture reform submissions close soon

10 December 2009

The Ministry of Fisheries reminds those interested in aquaculture reform that submissions on the Aquaculture Technical Advisory Group (TAG) report close on Wednesday 16 December.

Aquaculture is a top economic growth priority for the government. The TAG was set up to provide options for overhauling the current aquaculture regime.

“I encourage everyone with an interest in this important area for New Zealand’s future to have their say by the closing date,” said Ministry of Fisheries Industry Development Manager Emma Taylor. “Hui around the country have been going well with good attendance in Christchurch, Whakatane, Whangarei and Hamilton. We are also expecting a good attendance in Nelson today.”

Wider input will be invited at the select committee stage of the aquaculture reform legislation. Cabinet approval of the proposed reform policy will be sought in early 2010.

The report, as well as a series of questions and answers on the process and next steps, are available on the Ministry of Fisheries website at www.fish.govt.nz/en-nz/Consultations/default.htm

The announcement by Fisheries Minister Phil Heatley on the TAG report and the start of the submission process appears at www.beehive.govt.nz/release/aquaculture+reform+reaches+milestone