BOB BALDWIN AND THE COALITION PROTECT PATERSON’S

 FISHING COMMUNITIES, TOURISM AND MARINE ENVIRONMENTS

Bob Baldwin, Member for Paterson said today’s announcement that a Coalition Government will put on hold the Marine Bioregional Planning process is a win for Paterson’s coastal communities.

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott has announced that a Coalition Government will take immediate action to ensure future Marine Protected Areas balance environmental preservation with economic growth.

A Coalition Government would place the Marine Bioregional Planning process on hold, then restructure it in consultation with the community and industry in the first year of government.

The decision follows two meetings (at Forster and Shoal Bay) hosted by Mr Baldwin and Senator Richard Colbeck, Federal Coalition Spokesperson for Fisheries in which more than 400 people attended, the majority  of them furious over Labor’s lack of consultation.

“I wholeheartedly support the protection of our diverse marine environments, however I am also keenly aware of the rights of the fishing and tourism communities which rely on our waters for their livelihood,” said Mr Baldwin.

“Much of the Paterson community lives, works and plays on the coast so it is vital that their views are taken directly to Canberra, which I have done.

“What needs to be struck here is the right balance, and the Gillard Labor Government simply hasn’t consulted with people enough to make that happen.

“Earlier this year in the Newcastle Herald, Peter Garrett was spruiking that his department has, “held seven meetings with a range of commercial and recreational groups in the Newcastle region (more than 60 individuals attended).”

“If Mr Garrett has spoken to 60 people at seven meetings, that is an average of nine people per meeting, so I must wonder about his exclusive guest list.

“When my team and I consult, we consult with thousands. They have told us they are not happy with the current Marine Parks process and we have listened.

“I look forward to detailing the Coalition’s policy further when I attend the Newcastle Port Stephens Gamefish Club on 14 August.

“I also look forward to hearing from Labor Candidate Jim Arneman, who has been invited to the meeting to detail his views on this matter.”