jaybee
02-07-2004, 04:49 PM
The Federal Government has detailed a compensation package for commercial fishermen affected by the rezoning of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
One third of the reef will be closed to fishing from tomorrow.
No limit has been set, but just over $10 million was allocated in the Budget for funds to start flowing in July.
One of the key elements is a licence buy-out.
Operators, including land-based businesses and charters, are offered $1,000 for business planning and $200,000 for restructuring.
Master ticket holders can receive a one-off payment of $5,000 and $3,000 for crew.
The package also includes funds for social support and money for fishing communities through the Regional Partnerships Program.
Environment Minister Dr David Kemp says the Government is talking to the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority about administering the package.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government will begin buying back commercial fishing licences from operators in the Great Barrier Reef from tomorrow.
Dr Kemp says the so-called 'structural adjustment package' will offer affected fishermen generous compensation without disadvantage
One third of the reef will be closed to fishing from tomorrow.
No limit has been set, but just over $10 million was allocated in the Budget for funds to start flowing in July.
One of the key elements is a licence buy-out.
Operators, including land-based businesses and charters, are offered $1,000 for business planning and $200,000 for restructuring.
Master ticket holders can receive a one-off payment of $5,000 and $3,000 for crew.
The package also includes funds for social support and money for fishing communities through the Regional Partnerships Program.
Environment Minister Dr David Kemp says the Government is talking to the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority about administering the package.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government will begin buying back commercial fishing licences from operators in the Great Barrier Reef from tomorrow.
Dr Kemp says the so-called 'structural adjustment package' will offer affected fishermen generous compensation without disadvantage