DECLINE IN SPORT

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20024, 24 August 1939, Page 11

DECLINE IN SPORT

FISHING AND SHOOTING DEPARTMENT NEEDED OPINION OF MINISTER (Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, this day. “My idea would bo that a department should be set up to control freshwater fish and game and bird life generally, with a commissioner at the head and a biological section for investigation and research.” said the Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon. W. E. Parry, in an interview, when discussing the future of fishing and shooting in New Zealand. The Minister said he had at the moment no immediate plan foi t,ie creation • ol' such a department, but three years’ experience as Minister had convinced him of its need. If such a method of organisation as that which he described were set up it would, ho felt sure, overcome the practical extinction of the sport. The Minister deprecated the recent statements which, he said, were aimed at creating fear among license-holders that they would have to pay huge fees, and he reminded some of those who had made such statements that they themselves had supported the recent rise in the cost of fees. As a result of three years as Minister, he could sec the sport was going 'back. To-day wo were in a position where research and investigation were needed. He believed that advisoiy councils would be of very great assistance in achieving the ultimate objective.