The Nationals WA will attempt to overturn the Cook Labor Government’s damaging demersal fishing bans, moving disallowance motions in both the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council.
Shadow Minister for Fisheries Kirrilee Warr MLA said the motion to disallow the Prohibition on Commercial Fishing (Pilbara Fish Trawl) Order and Prohibition on Fishing For Demersal Scalefish Order under Fish Resources Management Act 1994, was a crucial opportunity to halt the bans and force the Government back to the drawing board.
Ms Warr said the Legislative Assembly motion will be debated during Private Members Business today.
“Western Australia has a proud fishing culture spanning generations, yet this Government has imposed sudden restrictions without proper consultation or transparency.”
“In less than two months we have already seen businesses close, family operators facing uncertain futures and coastal communities losing vital economic activity.”
“Thousands of recreational fishers have lost a pastime that is central to the Western Australian way of life and vital to their wellbeing.”
“This motion gives the Government a chance to reset and work with Western Australians to develop balanced and sustainable regulations that protect fish stocks without destroying livelihoods and a pastime enjoyed by many.”
Meanwhile, Nationals Member for Western Australia Hon Rob Horstman MLC has given notice of a motion of disallowance in the Legislative Council.
“If this disallowance is successful — which is possible given the numbers in the House — this motion will require the Government to rewrite the regulations and reconsider a ban that has caused enormous damage across Western Australia,” Mr Horstman said.
“Fishing is part of Western Australia’s identity, and the Nationals will continue to fight for a fairer outcome for fishers, businesses and communities across our state.”