The Government recently announced further steps in its plan to implement key changes to aquaculture, with the cabinet agreeing to recommendations that will boost the sector’s potential to generate sustainable economic growth, according to Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister, Hon Phil Heatley.
“In the past the industry has been stifled by inflexible rules that discouraged investment in the sector and we’re working hard to enable growth in aquaculture within a framework of sustainable coastal management,” Mr Heatley said.
“We’re on track to put in place the regulations necessary to support the aquaculture industry to reach its goal of $1 billion in annual sales by 2025.”
This target is a three-fold increase on the current sales level.
“It’s all about enabling sustainable use of our valuable natural resources to build the economy, create more jobs and get more people into work, especially in the regions,” he said.
Cabinet’s latest proposals build on the range of measures announced in April this year.
Mr Heatley says the aim is to ensure minimal disruption to the existing industry, and allow the processing of outstanding aquaculture applications to be completed and new applications to be made.
Cabinet also proposes making changes to the two regional coastal plans it considers present significant barriers to aquaculture growth – Tasman and Waikato - through an Aquaculture Reform Bill.
Changes to coastal plans in other regions have been suggested, but rather than use legislation, the Aquaculture Unit within the Ministry of Fisheries will work with councils to improve sustainable aquaculture development opportunities within their regions.
“The Government recognises that while legislative change will provide the framework within which aquaculture can grow, it will primarily be decisions made at a regional level that determine the nature and pace of growth,” he added.
The Government expects to introduce the Aquaculture Reform Bill later this year with enactment in early 2011.
