Photo: Supplied / John Aitchison
The High Court has found the Department of Conservation has failed in its management and reporting of protected species bycatch in commercial fisheries.
Two years ago, the Environmental Law Initiative sought a judicial review naming the Directors General of the Department of Conservation and Ministry for Primary Industries, the Attorney General, Minister of Conservation as well as several commercial fishers.
The judgment was released yesterday, and finds DOC hasn't used its powers to set limits on the bycatch of protected species.
Justice Cheryl Gwyn also found DOC failed to receive adequate bycatch reports, and also had a policy of non-investigation and non-prosecution of offences under the Wildlife Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act which was unlawful.
Kathryn speaks with Matt Hall, director of legal and research for the non-profit Environmental Law Initiative.
The Department of Conservation deputy director-general of biodiversity heritage and visitors, Stephanie Rowe says the decision is being carefully considered.
"No decision has been made on next steps, and DOC remains committed to the conservation of our threatened marine wildlife," she said.
