New National Policy Platform for recreational fishing's future
Fishing trade group lobbies government on behalf of recreational fishers.The Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) has launched a National Policy Platform, outlining the principles the association wishes the Federal Government to use in developing the national marine reserve system. The platform was launched at a Parliamentary Breakfast attended by over 70 recreational fishers, industry representatives, Government officials, Ministers and MPs.
AFTA Chief Executive Allan Hansard said the platform outlines overarching principles for the Federal Government to consider and apply to the proposed marine park planning process.
"The platform requests that the Governments clearly explain what environmental values they wish to protect when considering marine parks proposals, and why they propose to limit or exclude recreational fishing from certain areas.
"This policy platform will provide a solid base for assessing policies that could affect Australia’s five million recreational fishers," Mr Hansard said.
"The platform requests that economic and social impacts be assessed and comprehensive scientific analysis underpins decisions surrounding the creation of marine parks before AFTA will consider supporting them.
"AFTA also reminds governments that fishers are the eyes and ears on our seas. Locking out recreational fishing from marine parks and sanctuary zones is akin to locking out bushwalkers from terrestrial national parks. It should only be done if there is a well-founded scientific reason to do so.
"If this does need to occur then AFTA would seek recreational-fishing-only zones to offset the exclusion areas.
"With the release of this policy platform, AFTA looks forward to a continued dialogue with governments at the State and Federal levels as well as the ongoing support of the Coalition."
The Platform can be downloaded at www.afta.net.au
The Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) was formed in the early 1980s by independent wholesalers/distributors and manufacturers of fishing tackle and associated products in Australia. AFTA is an Australian trade association dedicating itself to the promotion of public angling and of its members.
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