Ban on foreign fishing vessels not enough
Foreign-flagged fishing vessels to be banned from New Zealand waters The Maritime Union and the Labour Party say Government plans to crack down on foreign fishing vessels do not go far enough.Foreign-flagged fishing vessels are to be banned from operating in New Zealand waters to address labour, safety and fisheries practice concerns, the Government announced today.Primary Industries Minister David Carter and Labour Minister Kate Wilkinson said the Government will require reflagging of all foreign-owned fishing vessels operating in New Zealand waters, and the rule change will be brought in over a four-year transition period."The Government's decision sends a clear message that New Zealand is serious about the fair treatment of fishing crews, the safety of vessels and its international reputation for ethical and sustainable fishing practices," the ministers said.However, the Maritime Union and the Labour Party say the best way to create good working conditions, is to make sure jobs on board the vessels go to Kiwis, and not foreigners.Labour's immigration spokesperson Darien Fenton said: "While these changes mean foreign vessels will need to be registered as New Zealand vessels - and abide by our much higher fisheries and labour standards - they will still be able to use entirely ...
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