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View Full Version : Reef rezoning plan moves closer to reality



jaybee
01-12-2003, 06:02 PM
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's plan to rezone the marine park is one step closer to being tabled in Federal Parliament.

The controversial plan, which will increase no fishing areas on the reef from five to more than 30 per cent, is now in the hands of the Federal Environment Minister Dr David Kemp after being approved by the authority's board.

The plan is the result of feedback received from 21,000 submissions in response to the draft plan and several months of public meetings.

It has raised criticisms from the commercial and recreational fishing industries for being too tough, but conservationists say at least 50 per cent of the reef should be fully protected.

Dr Kemp has until December 4 to introduce the plan to the House of Representatives before Parliament breaks for the year.

Last Update: Saturday, November 29, 2003. 11:13pm (AEDT)