06/06/06
Fisheries Minister Jon Ford today heralded the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Western Australia and the Northern Territory as an important tool to ensure better management and co-operation of the pearling industry.
At the joint signing in Perth today with the Northern Territory Minister for Primary Industry and Fisheries Kon Vatskalis, Mr Ford said the MOU would see the State and Territory working together to develop more consistent standards and policies to deal with management, compliance and industry development.
The MOU is based on a combined agreement between WA and the NT and agrees that South Sea pearl production be managed on a whole-of-industry basis in order to maintain the integrity of the industry and its value to the community.
Mr Ford said there were potential synergies and efficiencies in compliance arrangements across both WA and NT.
"Consistent translocation and fish health protocols are critical to the management of both pearl oyster health and production throughout the WA and NT," the Minister said.
"The MOU will help to ensure that the collection and interpretation of industry information relating to the South Sea pearl market is more reliable and will be integral to any future quota management system."
Mr Vatskalis said the industries are closely linked with similar legislation, and many pearling companies farm in both jurisdictions.
"Developing a collaborative approach to manage the industry will ensure the needs of pearlers in both jurisdictions are met," he said.
"Joint management of the industry will financially benefit pearling companies and this is good news for a range of other sectors that provide indirect support."
Executive officer of the Pearl Producers Association Brett McCallum said a consistent policy position across both Governments would ensure production was carefully managed to meet world demand.
"This policy approach ensures confidence in the future and provides a strong incentive for industry investment in pearl quality through technological and husbandry improvements," Mr McCallum said.
The MOU was developed in consultation with members of the Northern Territory and West Australian Pearling Industry Advisory Committees and will be subject to a review in 10 years.
Minister's office: 9213 7200
