Queensland Nationals Senator, Barnaby Joyce, has welcomed the review of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 announced by Senator Ian Campbell last week, however will be pushing for the terms of reference to be broadened to revisit decision making processes which have been detrimental to the commercial fishing industry.

In Cairns today Senator Joyce announced the need for a broadening of the review’s terms of reference.

“We need to revisit the decision making processes which have resulted in people being put out of their jobs, which is ultimately impacting on whole communities,” Senator Joyce said.

“We will be closely monitoring the Review of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act to ensure that fishing interests are represented and taken seriously by the Authority.

“An extension of the review should consider how we get to the position where up to 50% of the reef is excluded from commercial fishing, and 33% from any kind of fishing activities. Decisions should be based on science and consultation with all stakeholders.”

Senator Joyce said that public submissions have been called for the Review and he encourages fishing organisations and businesses to make contributions to suggest changes to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act and the way the Authority operates.

“Submissions are due by the 30th of September and the Review members will then travel to major centres along the North Queensland Coast where fishing industry and other stakeholders will be invited to make direct representation to the Review,” Senator Joyce said.

The Terms of Reference for the Review and information on the public submission processes are available at www.deh.gov.au/coasts/MPA/gbrmpa.

Ends