No justification for Dolphin measures

Press Release by NZ Seafood Indsutry Coucil, 25 October 2007

There is no justification for current proposals to protect Hector's and Maui's dolphins, New Zealand Seafood Industry Council chief executive Owen Symmans said today. The far-reaching measures proposed are based on dubious science and lack reliable information. "The facts just don't support them," he said.

The Council says the Government has stated that measures proposed in the Government's TMP (Threat Management Plan) will be put in place before Christmas. "But these are measures with huge consequences for New Zealand individuals, families and regional communities, and they have no factual information to support them," says Council chief executive Owen Symmans.

"The seafood industry recognizes its responsibilities in its interaction with New Zealand's precious marine resources and we want to maintain healthy and sustainable Hector's and Maui's dolphin populations.

"We do not accept, however, that decisions should be rushed through when the information is either woefully inaccurate or non-existent," says Mr Symmans.

"Its clear that ongoing research is needed on dolphin population numbers, trends, and looking at the effectiveness of mitigation measures the industry has already put in place, as well as other impacts such as pollution and disease. The industry is happy to take part in this research," says Mr Symmans.

The Council estimates in its submission on the TMP that the annual cost to New Zealand of the proposed changes will be almost $90 million.

"This is if the Option 3 measures in the Plan are adopted across all regions," says Mr Symmans. "It represents the value of catch lost, plus the impact on downstream processing, service suppliers, and employment."

The Council's submission recommends that the TMP Plan be withdrawn to enable critical information to be gathered in an appropriate timeframe. This will also mean that there can be calm and constructive discussions between the government and the various interest groups.

The Seafood Industry Council submission on the Hector's and Maui's Dolphin Threat Management Plan Draft for public consultation is available on the Council's website; http://www.seafood.co.nz/

For further information contact:
Sarah Crysell
Communications Manager
New Zealand Seafood Industry Council Ltd
04 802 1506 or 027 231 7914