Western Australia’s fisheries minister says he has “basically annoyed everyone” after facing criticism related to threats and debate over a demersal fishing ban. Multiple outlets report that a new inquiry is being established to examine a range of topics connected to marine management and fish stocks. The inquiry is expected to cover marine parks and related arrangements, as well as questions about the impact of seismic blasting on fish stock. Sources also state that the inquiry will address the contested demersal fishing ban, which has been a focal point of disagreement among stakeholders.
The reporting describes the minister’s comments as reflecting broader political and community pushback, while the inquiry framework aims to reassess evidence and impacts across environmental and industry concerns. While the outlets focus on the minister’s anger and the inquiry’s breadth, they converge on the same core development: an inquiry is scheduled to review multiple factors influencing fisheries and marine ecosystems, including the proposed or threatened demersal fishing ban and the effects of seismic blasting.
