Marine Park myths

Monday, 9 October 2006
Greens call on Government to debunk marine park myths

Claims that the NSW Greens have done a deal with the Iemma Government on marine parks are ridiculous, according to NSW Greens MP Ian Cohen.

"If we had been involved in a deal with the Government the creation and implementation of these marine parks would be much better than the current arrangements," he said.

"There are a number of things we would do differently. One very important issue that is not properly addressed under the present system is decent protection for the habitat of the critically endangered Grey Nurse Shark.

"The NSW Government needs to do more to educate the public about the benefits of marine parks. I think the reason that some people assume the Greens have an involvement with the marine parks legislation is that, despite their flaws, it appears to be the conservation movement and The Greens that are doing the most to defend the need for them.

"Having said that, the Government is to be commended for at least trying to protect our marine environment, which is more than can be said for the NSW Opposition.

"Marine parks do not represent a lockout. Almost 80% of marine parks are open to recreational fishing. Fishers are far more likely to suffer if marine parks are abolished and fish stocks decline.

"Recreational fishers should be wary of lobby groups hijacking their concerns, some of whom are little more than a front for unrepresentative MPs gearing up for their state election campaigns. It is hypocritical in the extreme for these people to be making false allegations of underhand political deals," Mr Cohen said.