MARINE PARKS

In reply to the Hon. J.A. DARLEY (15 November 2012).

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation, Minister for Water and the River Murray, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation): As the Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation I am advised:

1. Yes.

2. I am advised that the former Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation, the Hon. Paul Caica MP read the groups submission.

3. Yes, I am aware of the alternative proposal, as was the former Minister. The proposal was given serious consideration.

4. Extensive advice about marine parks zoning was sought and received over the past few years, including zoning around the Port Wakefield area. This included a key stakeholder forum in April 2012 where advice on zoning proposals was provided. This forum used the zoning advice provided by Marine Park Local Advisory Groups as their starting point for discussion. The forum identified the area at the top of the Gulf St Vincent as an area of significant conservation value requiring high level protection.

In determining the final zoning in the Upper Gulf St Vincent Marine Park, careful consideration was given to the concerns voiced by local communities as part of the recent public consultation process. In addition, as also required under the Marine Parks Act 2007, the views of a range of individuals and bodies, including the environment and conservation sector, local government, the commercial and recreational fishing sectors, tourism and general business was sought. All of the advice received was carefully considered to determine final zoning.