Released 04/12/2017
Canberrans who love to fish in our local waterways are being asked to contribute to a review of fishing laws to ensure the ACT continues to have a sustainable fish population.
Minister for the Environment and Heritage Mick Gentleman said the ACT Government was keen to hear from those who know our waterways best.
“We know that over 100,000 Canberrans go fishing each year, and that they are interested in making sure we have sustainably managed fisheries.
“Anglers and other people who use our waterways have particular perspectives on fishing and fishing practices that will be valuable as we look at the Fisheries Act to ensure it is up-to-date and meets contemporary needs,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The review of the Fisheries Act will focus on ensuring the Act provides for sustainable fishing in the ACT by allowing quality recreational fishing while conserving native fish, and their habitat.
“It will be important to make sure recreational, cultural and commercial fishing practices will be carried out in a way that is inclusive, fair and sustainable to other users and the environment,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The review will also look at compliance with, and enforcement of, the fishing regulations, including whether current offences and penalties are appropriate. This includes regulations around prohibited fishing gear, closed fishing seasons and licences.
“How the ACT Government can better facilitate cultural fishing practices will also be part of the review. These practices could include traditional Aboriginal fishing methods, or ‘karma’ releases, where live fish destined to be eaten are purchased and released into the wild.
“The discussion paper on the review of the Fisheries Act is now live on the ACT Government’s Your Say website, and I encourage Canberrans to join in the discussion,” Minister Gentleman concluded.
The discussion paper and survey are at Your Say consultation closes on 5 February 2018.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases