A reduction of fisheries officer positions from nine to four in East Gippsland has been slammed by Gippsland East MP, Tim Bull.
“This is yet another step from a cash strapped Labor Government that has doubled the metropolitan based public service in the 10 years it has been in government, but now when it is time to tighten the belt, has cut front line positions from rural areas,” he said.
This comes on the back of a reduction in Parks Victoria staff by the same Minister just months ago.
Mr Bull said there had previously been four fisheries officer positions at both Mallacoota and Lakes Entrance as well as a regional manager, and while some of these positions had been vacant, the cuts mean that only two positions remain in each of Lakes Entrance and Mallacoota.
“We have basically gone from nine to four and that causes all sorts of issues.
“First and foremost is that two officers are required for the higher level enforcement and apprehension work, but with each having four weeks’ annual leave, possible sick days, parental and other leave, for several months of the year they will be unable to complete this important work.
“It’s not a five-minute trip from Mallacoota to Lakes Entrance and often these jobs require a quick response. For this reason, at least three positions should remain in both locations.
“In addition, the department’s own website states fisheries officers also enforce laws pertaining to littering, boating safety, wildlife protections, appropriate campfire use and other areas as well.
“With reductions in staff numbers across the board locally, Parks Victoria personnel won’t be able to pick up the slack and assist with enforcement in these areas.
“The Department acknowledges most recreational anglers do the right thing and no doubt a significant reason for this is due to the presence of officers who not only enforce, but also educate. The reduction in officers will impact on this. There will be a major decrease in on-water hours educating the community and upholding the laws.
“I am aware we have a Minister who basically has no understanding of fishing, but even he should be able to realise this is not a positive move,” he said.
