Issued by: The Ministry of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
STATEMENT BY THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM, DR D J DE VILLIERS
The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Dr D J de Villiers, today confirmed that he will be attending the meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Environmental Affairs and Tourism on Tuesday, 19 March 1996.
This will afford Dr de Villiers the opportunity to respond to a wide range of views and statements regarding the Quota Board, the Sea Fisheries Policy Development Committee and other issues pertaining to Sea Fisheries following two recent meetings of the Portfolio Committee. The Minister would also like to use the opportunity to put the various issues into perspective.
There is a need to relate the factual situation of where the consultative process stands and what steps have been taken to ensure that a transparent and democratic transition towards a new fisheries dispensation takes place.
This consultative process which has understandably, due to its pioneering nature, had its fair share of problems should not be derailed at this late stage. All additional means that can contribute constructively to the quality of the process are to be welcomed but any actions to impede the progress will only be counter productive and frustrate the very people that require urgent assistance.
ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS AND TOURISM, CAPE TOWN, 15 MARCH 1996
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