Bill to change marine park boundaries passes Upper House

The South Australian Upper House has passed a Private Member’s Bill to change the current boundaries of the Weatherill Labor Government’s marine park sanctuary zones.

“This is the first step in guiding this critical legislation through the South Australian Parliament,” said Shadow Minister for the Environment Michelle Lensink.

The Bill proposes to exclude some of the Weatherill Government’s marine park sanctuary zones from taking effect on 1 October this year in their current form.

“The Weatherill Labor Government’s marine park boundaries have been widely condemned by the fishing industry, recreational fishers and regional communities,” said Ms Lensink.

“The State Liberals support marine parks, but not the current boundaries proposed by the Weatherill Labor Government.”

“Now the Bill has passed the Upper House Minister Brock and Minister Hamilton-Smith must tell South Australians whether they support this sensible reform to the current marine park boundaries.

“This is an important issue for regional South Australians, who have been neglected by the Weatherill Labor Government for 12 years.

“The State Liberals understand the adverse effects that will be felt by regional communities if these marine parks are implemented in their current form.

“Unlike the Weatherill Labor Government, the State Liberals will continue listening to the concerns of South Australians and will continue to stand up for our regions.”