Labor Party woos Tasmanian anglers with election pledges

With the Tasmanian state election taking place on May 1st, the Labor Party has come out fighting in support of recreational fishing.

The party has highlighted a number of its intended policies, including no new taxes or levies on recreational fishing, the buy-back of commercial net fishing licences and a ten-year recreational sea fishing strategy. Shadow Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Water Shane Broad said Labor will ‘stand up’ for the right of Tasmanians to enjoy catching fish with a package to benefit all recreational anglers.

Dr Broad said his party would provide $2 million for better boat ramps and associated facilities and $1 million for four years for TARFish (Tasmanian Association for Recreational Fishing) to provide an independent voice for recreational fishing. “A majority Labor Government will create a $1.5 million fund to buy back commercial net fishing licences,” added Dr. Broad. “This non-compulsory buy-back will aim to increase fish stocks for recreational fishers and allow commercial net fishers to exit the industry if they wish.

“We will invest $750,000 in a Flathead Recovery Plan to make sure future generations don’t miss out on the great Tasmanian tradition of catching a flathead. And we will review rock lobster access on the East Coast for recreational fishers in consultation with industry and commit to no further cuts to individual bag, possession limits or season length.”