OUTPUT CLASS - POLICY FRAMEWORK

Description

This output class includes the outputs that ensure development and review of policies to underpin the legal and conceptual framework for the sustainable and efficient utilisation of fisheries, and guide the implementation of policy.

Objectives

• Provide and improve a conceptual framework for the sustainable and efficient use of fisheries resources.

• Participate in the development and review of international frameworks, and implement the decisions in a domestic context.

• Provide services to the Minister of Fisheries and Select Committees as required.

Funding

Explanation of year-on-year changes

Output 12

• A movement of $271 from this output, which focuses on the development of new policy frameworks for international obligations, to output 32, which captures effort on the maintenance of those frameworks. During 2003/04 the emphasis of this output has been placed on the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, which is in the process of being ratified. On ratification, the nature of the work on WCPFC becomes that of support of an existing framework and consequently costs have been moved to output 32 - International utilisation and sustainability reported.

Output 13

• A transfer of $135 to environmental sustainability work in output 31 - Utilisation and sustainability reported.

• A reduction in funding of $96 as part of the Government's Biodiversity Strategy.

Output 15

• Based on recent trends, it is expected the Ministry will direct more resources to servicing this output in 2004/05.

Output 11 Utilisation and sustainability policy advice provided

Output description

This output is designed to provide advice on policy development and to promote new frameworks aimed at:

• protecting the health of the aquatic environment

• enabling New Zealanders to get the best value from the sustainable and efficient use of fisheries

• ensuring the Crown delivers on its obligations to Māori with respect to fisheries.

Performance expectations

The work programme being undertaken by the Ministry's Policy and Treaty Strategy group covers a range of policy development activities, including the following key areas:

Aquaculture reforms

The present system of aquaculture management is fragmented, with applications for permits requiring approvals from different agencies. The purpose of the aquaculture reforms is to streamline the approval process by bringing it under one agency. The Ministry has a central role in the reforms which, when implemented, will allow the aquaculture industry to increase its contribution to the New Zealand economy. The legislative changes necessary to give effect to the reforms are expected to be completed in the 2004/05 year.

Fisheries Act Amendment

The present processes of identifying species for, and introducing species into, the Quota Management System need to be improved to reflect the Government's preferred approach for managing fisheries. The allocation of quota also needs to be improved, reflecting the reality that the current allocation mechanisms are becoming outdated and are impeding effective management. Similarly, the rationale for the continuation of the permit moratorium is weak; a new framework for authorising commercial fishing therefore needs to be implemented in the near future. The legislative amendments required to implement these changes are expected to be completed in the 2004/05 year.

Fisheries Deed of Settlement

The Ministry recognises the need to improve on the delivery of its legislative obligations to Māori, and its responsibilities under the principles of the Treaty. The Ministry has neither the skilled personnel nor processes necessary to interact effectively with iwi. The purpose of the project is to review the way the Ministry delivers on its obligations. The principal objectives are to assess the nature and extent of the Ministry's obligations, develop a comprehensive strategy for delivering on those obligations, and develop an implementation plan for the strategy across the Ministry. This is expected to be completed in the 2004/05 year.

Expected result

1. Support the introduction and passage of aquaculture legislation.

2. By 30 September 2004, commence implementation of amendments to the Fisheries Act 1996, and effect consequent regulation and permit changes.

3. By 30 June 2005, complete consultation with iwi on the draft approach.

Output 12 International fisheries utilisation and sustainability advice provided

Output description

Contribute to the development of bilateral, regional and multilateral frameworks for managing international fisheries, with the aim of:

• protecting the health of the aquatic environment

• enabling New Zealanders to get the best value from the sustainable and efficient use of fisheries.

Explanation

The focus of this output is the sustainable use of international fisheries through the establishment of robust management regimes. The Ministry works to promote and protect New Zealand's fisheries interests through:

• maintenance of representation at and contribution to international institutions (eg the fisheries committees or working groups of APEC, the FAO, the UN, and the OECD)

• negotiation of frameworks and arrangements to improve the sustainable use of international fisheries.

Expected result

1. Negotiating positions and briefs developed and approved by Ministers or senior officials one week prior to the start of international meetings.

2. Report provided on the outcomes of meetings within 2 weeks of return to New Zealand.

Output 13 Biodiversity advice provided

Output description

This output is intended to improve our understanding and maintenance of marine biological diversity aimed primarily at protecting the health of the aquatic environment.

Performance expectations

Explanation

Our understanding of marine biological diversity is generally poor, which limits our ability to provide for utilisation of fisheries resources in a manner that maintains biological diversity. This output covers a range of projects designed to improve our understanding of marine biological diversity and improve

the management tools by which it is protected.

Expected result

1. Report annually on the implementation of the New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy.

Output 15 Ministerial services provided

Output description

This output provides a number of services to the Minister and Associate Minister of Fisheries and to the Minister for Biosecurity. These include the drafting of reports and advice to Ministers, and to Select and Cabinet Committees, replies to Ministerial correspondence and responses to Parliamentary questions.

Performance expectations

Explanation

All government departments are required to provide services to the portfolio Minister(s) to enable them to carry out their statutory functions.

Expected result