WAFIC and Recfishwest joint statement on West Coast demersal stock assessment
“Western Australia’s fishing sectors care deeply about the future of WA’s demersal scalefish, and the new science shows that challenges extend across the State. This is bigger than one fishery or one sector.
“WAFIC and Recfishwest welcome the Minister’s Fishing Futures forum in October and are committed to working with Government and scientists towards ensuring healthy demersal stocks for generations to come.
“Healthy fish stocks are essential for our coastal communities, our fishing industries, and for every West Australian who values these iconic species.”
Comments from WA Fishing Industry Council Chief Executive Officer, Melissa Haslam:
“The stock assessment results are shocking but unfortunately have not come as a surprise. WAFIC have been calling for fisheries management reform for many years now.
“Neither the commercial or recreational sector are fishing outside of their regulations, yet demersal fish stocks are in a severe or critical condition. The rules are wrong.
“This is a shared public resource, and we support the need to work with all parties to develop a way forward that will ensure a sustainable future for the West Coast Demersal Fishery.
“NO shying away from tough management reform – it’s time to get it done.”
Comments from Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland
“Healthy fish stocks and fair outcomes matter to every WA family that goes fishing.
“Fishing for demersals is central to WA’s lifestyle, culture and coastal communities, delivering benefits far beyond the fish themselves.
“Solutions will need to be guided by the best available science, while carefully balancing the social and economic benefits these fisheries deliver.”