Quota levels of pilchards in Albany and Bremer Bay fishing zones reduced

7/4/95

Fisheries Minister Monty House has accepted the recommendation of the Purse Seine Fishery Management Advisory Committee and reduced quota levels in the Albany and Bremer Bay zones to ensure sustainability of south coast pilchard stocks.

The total allowable catch for the Albany Zone will be reduced by 30 per cent from 5,500 tonnes to 3,850 tonnes.  The total allowable catch for Bremer Bay will drop by 15 per cent to 2,176 tonnes.

The quota reduction in Albany is less than the 35 per cent recommended to the Minister by the committee.

Concerns were raised with industry since research indicated poor recruitment of two-year-old pilchards in the Albany, Bremer Bay and Esperance sectors of the fishery for the second year in a row.

Mr House accepted the recommendation after meeting with fishermen, processors and the management advisory committee in Albany last week.

"After careful consideration of the issues, I believe it is a responsible decision in the interests of the long-term sustainability of pilchard stocks," Mr House said.

"The fishery will be carefully monitored by researchers with reviews of recruitment levels in June and October. If pilchard recruitment levels are satisfactory quota levels will be increased later in the year."

Mr House has also requested the management advisory committee to investigate other issues associated with the improving the fishery including access to the Bremer Bay quota pool and access to pilchard fisheries west of Albany free of quota restrictions for Albany fishermen.

Media contact:  Will Henwood (09) 481 2044