OUTER
HARBOUR — COCKBURN SOUND
270. Dr D.J. HONEY to the Minister for Fisheries:
Thank you very much for the call,
Madam Speaker. I almost drifted off then.
I refer to the comments from the
member for Cockburn in this place during the debate on the Aquatic Resources
Management Amendment Bill on 3 June about pressure on Cockburn Sound, and I quote
—
Mussel aquaculture has reduced in
productivity from production levels of over 700 tonnes in early 2000 to below
200 tonnes in recent years �
I also refer to the closure of the
snapper and southern garfish fisheries.
If Cockburn Sound fisheries are
already under pressure, what impact will the outer harbour have on recreational
and commercial fisheries in Cockburn Sound?
Several members interjected.
The SPEAKER: Order, please!
Mr D.T.
PUNCH replied:
I thank the member for the
question. I am shocked that I have actually been asked a question in this
place! Thank you very much, member, for my first question.
As I explained in the second
reading speech on the Aquatic Resources Management Amendment Bill 2021, and in
response to the member's question, this government has a very strong
commitment to science and research. In response to the proposals for Cockburn
Sound, we are investing significantly in researching the potential impacts, if
any, on Cockburn Sound. This is one of the answers to the member's
question. We have also invested in marine science research, which will start in
July.
In regard to mussels, as the member
will know, Cockburn Sound waters are considerably cleaner than they have been
in the past, which makes it difficult to grow mussels, but I am very happy to
provide the member with further information on the mussel issue should he wish
it.