NSW Fisheries officers believe recreational fishers are being unfairly punished in an operation designed to target illegal fishing inside marine park sanctuary zones.
According to an article in the Newcastle Herald, the Fisheries Compliance Unit launched Operation Aurora on January 21 in as part of push to improve sanctuary zone compliance.
An internal email circulated to staff says the approved compliance response requires all persons committing offences against Section 41 or CI1.25 of the Fisheries Management Act to be issued with a PIN (Penalty Infringement Notice). Officers must seek approval from their manager to deal with an infringement in a different manner.
Some officers believe the approach unfairly punishes recreational anglers who are not aware they are inside a sanctuary zone.
“Instead of promoting knowledge of sanctuary zones the operation takes a zero tolerance approach with a book and run focus rather than educating,” one officer said.
The operation, which has not been publically advertised, will continue until January 31.
You can read the full article HERE.
