Seafood firms want to be free

Companies say it's time for fisheries management reforms, writes LIBBY MIDDLEBROOK.

One of the most important items on the fishing sector's wish list this election is for the Government to withdraw from industry management.

"The key thing the seafood sector needs is for the Government to get out of it," said Bruce Young, chief executive of Moana Pacific, one of the country's largest seafood companies.

The Government has been directly involved in the management of the fisheries industry for more than 10 years in reaction to concerns about the depletion of fish stocks and environmental sustainability.

The chief executive of the New Zealand Seafood Industry Council, John Valentine, said the industry had improved its performance and was encouraged by the response from all political parties to support legislative changes.

"The Government simply isn't equipped for fisheries management," he said.

"High compliance costs have discouraged investment and it has been a difficult, negative operating environment.

"We're very pleased with the support we've received from all the parties for fishing reforms."

He said Labour's proposal to establish a fisheries advisory council was at odds with proposed reforms to devolve management responsibilities from Parliament.

Mr Young said the Green Party's proposal to turn one-fifth of New Zealand's exclusive fishing zone into marine reserves was of great concern.

"We recognise that there may be a place for marine reserves, but that one's a real joke and unbelievably naive."

The seafood industry had good access to export markets but competitive taxation rates were essential to encourage further investment in New Zealand.

"We'll just go somewhere else [if taxation rates increase]. We've got other investments overseas and we just wouldn't put any more money into New Zealand," said Mr Young.

Shane Walsh, North Island manager of Sanford, one of New Zealand's oldest seafood companies, said the need for a quota system would continue. Its maintenance was the most important election issue for the company.

Companies were also opposed to any changes to the Employment Contracts Act.

Talleys Fisheries director Michael Talley said the Government should reduce tariffs on imports only at the same rate as other countries to promote industry growth.