The Fisheries (Foreign Charter Vessels and Other Matters) Bill will require all foreign charter vessels to carry the New Zealand flag from 1 May 2016, and operate under full New Zealand legal jurisdiction
“This Bill will help maintain our reputation around the world. It shows that we are serious about the fair treatment of fishing crews, the safety of vessels and New Zealand’s international reputation for ethical and sustainable fishing practices,” said Nathan Guy, Minister for Primary Industries.
The Bill will also enable the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to consider employment, pollution/waste discharge issues, vessel safety matters as well as fisheries matters, when assessing applications for registration of foreign-owned fishing vessels.
It will also allow MPI Fishery Observers to collect information on employment pollution/waste discharge, and vessel safety matters, as well as the scientific information they collect now, and will also confer new powers to suspend the registration of non-compliant foreign-owned fishing vessels.
Sealord Group has welcomed the passing of the Bill. Sealord CEO, Graham Stuart said that the amendment is an important part of shining a light on a small but dark corner of the industry.
“Sealord congratulates the Ministry of Primary Industries for ensuring that all fishermen in New Zealand are well treated and fairly paid. This is a positive move for New Zealand’s reputation in important export markets,” he said.
