Whilst acknowledging there is still work to do as an industry to mitigate our effects on the environment it is, at the same time, an equal acknowledgement that our ongoing efforts are being recognised and being effective.

  Of note from this report is confirmation that annual estimation of Maui dolphin fatalities has been considerably revised down – from the previous 5 per year to 0.16 per year. The report also reiterates there have been no observed captures in the Taranaki closure area since MPI observers were put on board set net vessels in 2012.

  MPI have also recognised that the fall in sea lion numbers has no single cause; “there is no single threat that is impacting on the sea lion population and recovery will require mitigation of multiple threats at the four main breeding sites”

  Seabird captures are still of concern but the report confirms a downward trend in white-capped albatross, fluctuations in other albatross species, and a downward trend in all other seabirds apart from the white-chinned petrel.

  MPI recognises the effort the industry has made in reducing the incidental capture of seabirds including the use of tori lines to scare birds away from baited hooks. The report acknowledges the industry also funded research into new, improved mitigation measures and adopted voluntary codes of practice and best-practice fishing methods.

  Special mention was made of Southern Seabird Solutions, a collaboration between the commercial fishing industry and environmental and conservation groups whose stated aim is to promote responsible fishing practices that avoid the incidental capture of seabirds in New Zealand and the southern ocean.

  Reducing our environmental impact must be an ongoing priority. We are mindful of the fragility of the resource we use and will continue, through science and innovation, to lessen our footprint.

  However, we must never lose sight of the incredible contribution the men and women of this industry make to New Zealand through employment and our contribution to New Zealand’s economy.

  In the face of opposition from those who have a philosophical objection to any commercial fishing we should remain proud of what we do. We value environmental responsibility and are proud we fish in one of the top five sustainable fisheries in the world.

  Science can be the only measure of that.

  A document like AEBAR is a useful measure of where we sit.