SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA INDUSTRY

The Hon. M. PARNELL (14:51): In light of the minister's answer, will the South Australian government be resigning from the World Conservation Union if it does not accept that body's finding that southern bluefin tuna is a critically endangered species?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Minister for Forests, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for State/Local Government Relations) (14:51): I am happy to refer that to the Minister for Environment. It is not a matter for me to determine. I have made it very clear that we value our fisheries industries highly. They are a significant economic stimulus for the state. They contribute significantly to our economic prosperity, to jobs. It is in everyone's interests, both socially and environmentally, that we maintain our commercial fisheries in a sustainable way. We are not just here to make a quick buck today; we are here to make sure we have businesses that are sustainable and are able to endure into the future so that our children and grandchildren can carry on in those businesses and work in those industries. That is why our commitment to sustainable fisheries is such a strong one.