Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism Marthinus van Schalkwyk visited the West Coast town of Saldanha Bay on Thursday for the first in a series of public meetings with fishermen and workers in the fishing industry.
The so-called ”imbizos” are intended to collect opinions on matters affecting the industry, ahead of the allocation of medium- to long-term fishing rights next year.
”One of the most important features of responsible and responsive government is to open up the process of decision-making, and to create the space for government leaders to consult directly with communities,” Van Schalkwyk said in a speech prepared for delivery at the event.
”We know that there are many who feel very strongly about the last round of allocations in 2001, and it is my hope that our fishers will use these imbizos to share with us their perspectives on what was done correctly in 2001, which aspects of the process need strengthening, and what was done incorrectly and should be revisited in 2005.”
He said fishing was as much about jobs and supporting families as it was about nets, lines and boats.
”We know, for instance, that commercial fishing rights — especially limited rights in the lobster, netfish and linefish sectors — must be allocated to those who really do fish, and not to teachers, lawyers, accountants and farmers who misrepresent
themselves in the applications process.
”We must also acknowledge together that our inshore fish stocks are under great pressure, and if they are not properly managed, our children may inherit coastlines with no fish.
”This is why quota allocations are so important, and why the process of allocating quotas must be inclusive, transparent and corruption-free.”
Van Schalkwyk said between now and December his department would ”be in ongoing consultation with fishers … about policies, applications, fees and processes”.
”In the last quarter of this year, we will aim to publish the draft policies for each fishery for public comment.
”In the first half of 2005, the final policies will be published together with application forms and invitations to apply for the rights.”
The next imbizo is to be held in the Cape South Coast town of Hermanus on Friday. Further meetings are planned in towns and cities of South Africa’s three coastal provinces. – Sapa