STATEWIDE: Fisheries gutted, says McLeish
The Allan Labor Government is gutting frontline fisheries compliance, dramatically weakening enforcement efforts, and leaving recreational fishers, boaters, and marine environments at risk, says Eildon MLA Cindy McLeish (pictured).
“The current 73 Fisheries Officer positions across the state are being slashed by a staggering 50 per cent, to only 36 Fisheries Engagement Officer roles, primarily focused on community engagement,” Ms McLeish said.
“In total, 35 people will lose their jobs during this cost-of-living crisis, bringing staffing from 192 to 157.
“Fisheries officers are already carrying a vacancy rate close to 30 per cent across the state and under the restructure some of these vacancies won’t be filled.
Ms McLeish said: “Fisheries officer positions have been decimated across the state and will be felt locally.
“There are just over 50 fisheries officers in Victoria now; 20 years ago, there were 72.”
“This is yet another move by a cash-strapped Labor Government that has doubled the metropolitan-based public service in its 10 years in power.
“Now, when it’s time to tighten the belt, they cut frontline positions in rural areas. This follows a reduction in Parks Victoria staff by the same Minister just months ago.”
“It comes as no surprise that this reduction has been poorly received by the recreational angling community.”
Ms McLeish highlighted that native fisheries research positions have been severely impacted.
“The Arthur Rylah Institute has not been spared, with crucial native fish research projects being discarded.
“We know that majority of recreational anglers comply with regulations which is largely due to the presence of officers who enforce and educate.
“With this change, job focus will shift to education and engagement and move away from enforcement,” Ms McLeish said.