jaybee
25-12-2003, 05:20 PM
ABC News
Last Update: Wednesday, December 24, 2003. 6:20 AM (AEST)
Queensland's commercial fishing operators are supporting a new Government-commissioned report showing proposed fishing closures on the Great Barrier Reef will cost their industry about $13 million in lost production.
The report by the Bureau of Rural Services found Bundaberg will be the hardest-hit coastal community, with a production loss of more than $2 million.
John Olsen from the Seafood Industry Association says the report presents a clear argument for significant compensation for fishermen.
"This is a big deal and there is going to be profound impact," he said.
"When the rest of Australia is out there saying 'you are going to do this because we want you to do it', it is up to the rest of Australia to say 'okay, you've conceded with what we wanted, now it's our turn to ensure that you are no worse off as a result of our demands'."
Last Update: Wednesday, December 24, 2003. 6:20 AM (AEST)
Queensland's commercial fishing operators are supporting a new Government-commissioned report showing proposed fishing closures on the Great Barrier Reef will cost their industry about $13 million in lost production.
The report by the Bureau of Rural Services found Bundaberg will be the hardest-hit coastal community, with a production loss of more than $2 million.
John Olsen from the Seafood Industry Association says the report presents a clear argument for significant compensation for fishermen.
"This is a big deal and there is going to be profound impact," he said.
"When the rest of Australia is out there saying 'you are going to do this because we want you to do it', it is up to the rest of Australia to say 'okay, you've conceded with what we wanted, now it's our turn to ensure that you are no worse off as a result of our demands'."