The NSW Legislative Council has established a select committee to examine recreational fishing in NSW.
Chaired by Robert Brown MLC of The Shooters Party the committee consisting of members of all major political parties, has commenced its enquiry and is inviting interested parties to contribute submissions.
“This parliamentary inquiry will take a thorough look at recreational fishing, for both coastal and inland fisheries, and the way it is managed in this state. There are over half a million recreational fishing licence holders in NSW and this inquiry will examine the benefits and opportunities that improved recreational fisheries may represent for licence holders” said Brown.
While the committe is expected to look at the current policies in regards to the regulations and policy making processes controlling recreational fishing in NSW, the effectiveness of existing marine protected areas (MPAs) and marine parks will be closely examined.
“This inquiry will also consider the value of recreational fisheries to the economy of NSW, as well as ecologically sustainable development issues relAted to improving recreational fisheries, said Brown.
Submissions addressing the terms of reference (these can be obtained from the Committee Secretariat on (02) 9230 3544 or at: www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/fishinginquiry) are invited to be lodged by Friday 19 March 2010. A series of public meetings have been scheduled to follow in Sydney and coastal and regional areas from April to June.
Submissions can be submitted via email to: fishinginquiry@parliament.nsw.gov.au or faxed to (02) 9230 3416 or mailed to: The Director, Select Committee on Recreational Fishing, Parliament House, Macquarie St Syndey NSW 2000.
