MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Australia considering new anti illegal fishing legislation

Fisheries Minister Tony Burke reaffirmed the Government's commitment to fight illegal fishing. (Photo: Stock File/Customs)

New legislation granting the Canberra government more power to crack down on illegal fishing was introduced to the Australian parliament last week by Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke.

The bill, called the Fisheries Legislation Amendment (New Governance Arrangements for the Australian Fisheries Management Authority and Other Matters) Bill 2008, is designed to protect Australia's AUD 2 billion (USD 1.83 billion) fishing industry. "Illegal fishing is a dangerous and damaging activity which costs our fishing industry, puts pressure on fish stocks and can spread pests or disease," said Burke. "Australia is a recognised world-leader in fighting illegal fishing – both internationally and within our own waters. The sustainability of species such as trepang, shark and Patagonian toothfish is at risk from illegal fishing." The legislation would grant greater powers to the Australian Customs Service, the Australian Defence Force and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) to combat illegal fishing. It would also grant greater power to border protection officers to seize ships that are found poaching in Australian waters, and create new offence categories for Australian citizens caught poaching in other countries. The legislation would allow officials to seize vessels that are providing fuel, freezer storage, or other aid to poachers. Previously, officials could only pursue the vessel that was actively poaching. It would also require foreign vessels without a licence to stow their fishing equipment while in Australian waters, thus making poaching more difficult. The proposed law would also ensure that Australians caught poaching in other countries get processed by Australian law. Finally, the law would further an election commitment to convert the AFMA to an official fisheries commission and a statutory authority. This conversion would take place under the Financial Management and Accountability Act of 1997. "The Rudd Labour Government will continue fighting illegal fishing to protect our seafood industries and our environment," said Burke. (FIS/MP).-