Yesterday Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister, Phil Heatley announced that a Ministerial Inquiry into the operation of Foreign Charter Vessels (FCVs) will be held. The terms of reference have yet to be set by Cabinet, however the issue of concern relates to employment conditions experienced by foreign crew, while working in New Zealand waters.
The fisheries industry is currently valued at $4 billion dollars, and Māori are well positioned, controlling 37% of the fishing quota. Like other quota owners, iwi organisations rent out a portion of their quota to operators who then engage foreign vessels and crew to do the fishing. Most of the catch is then taken to China for processing, to reduce operating costs. In May, Mr Heatley raised the issue of iwi use of foreign charter vessels, questioning whether the practice undermines Māori employment.
In our assessment, the announcement of a Ministerial Inquiry is positive. We think it unlikely that most Māori would support treaty settlement resource being used in a manner than directly undermines the wellbeing of other people groups, so further clarity on the issue is a step forward. Note we have provided you with broader information on this topic on 27 May 2011.
From week ending 15 July 2011
