Fishing industry
Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:31): (820) My question is for the Minister for Outdoor Recreation. We have seen reports of redundancies of fisheries enforcement officers. It is my understanding that there have been 27 of around 130 enforcement jobs lost over the last week or so. There has been widespread fear that these job losses will lead to an explosion of illegal activity. It has taken some time to get to the situation where we have such widespread compliance, so it seems to me these fears are justifiable. My question is: how will fisheries ensure that there will continue to be adequate enforcement?
Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:31): I thank Mr Bourman for his question. This matter will be referred to the Minister for Outdoor Recreation, consistent with the standing orders.