NSW Fisheries has denied the claim of an indigenous lobby group that the department did not wish to discuss traditional rights with the community.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The newly formed NSW Aboriginal Fishing Rights Group will hold a protest at Broulee on Saturday. RELATED CONTENT: Indigenous fishos cast line for rights
“The significance of fisheries resources to Aboriginal people is fully appreciated and is recognised in NSW Fisheries legislation,” a Fisheries spokeswoman said yesterday.
“The government is serious about ensuring cultural fishing is available now and in the future for Aboriginal people.”
She said interim measures had been in place for several years to accommodate cultural fishing activity and access arrangements were being formalised.
She said the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), which is in charge of NSW Fisheries, in consultation with the Aboriginal Fishing Advisory Council (AFAC), was developing proposed arrangements to regulate cultural fishing.
“DPI and AFAC are working with the Aboriginal community seeking direct input related to the varying issues across communities, with the aim of finding the best ways to provide for ongoing access related to our shared fisheries resources,” she said.
She said feedback received at community meetings throughout the state and comments on a consultation paper were being compiled for consideration by DPI and AFAC.
