Untitled

Hokitika Guardian, 1 July 1932, Page 4

T»e conference of men engaged locally in the white-bait industry- held on Wednesday to- meet Mr A, E. Hefford, Inspector of Fisheries, to discuss with him the draft of proposed new regulat.ons . affecting the industry was well attended, the conference lasting well! oyer three hours, and many .of the clauses were the subject of much comment. These new regulations, however, are to meet the necess-ties of the industry throughout New Zealand, and some ,of the clauses apply to certain districts only, and the West Coast is included in th.s particular in certain features. In'the main the new regulations appear to be drawn up' in a manner that should prove of benefit to the industry which is of substantia}! value, and worthy of being safeguarded so as to ensure the steady continuance of the annual visitation, which provides such a welcome addition to the fish food of the Dominion, Most of the clauses in the draft regulations have been in force for years past, and with the additions proposed the new regulations should be acceptable and form workable conditions, Jn the past there hap been some difficulty in settling disputes especially in connection with the taking up of tranches 'and the holding thereof, and only last year it was brought to light that the position of the local Inspector was not as tenable as it should have been. The proposed pew additional clauses shquld enable sqme of the-se- difficulties to be met and ensure more amicable working conditions. The- whitebait industry in late years has assumed substantial proportions, and the early catches especially have proved very lucrative, while all through the season there is' a ready demand at prices that make the industry worth while. The comjng season will be welcomed more than ever, in vjew of the present depression because oven if prices are considerably lower, the fishing season provides an opportunity to many to increase their earnings. Of .special interest in the regulations, as they affects hand net fishing for private consumption, is the proposal to increase- the daily catch nl'ownnce from two tq four quarts, However, these proposed regulations, wliT-h hnvp yet to be. reviewed .and approved by'tie authorities will not in -any case come into July of next year, so present- conditions affecting the industry will prevail for the season that jfj soop due‘to commence,