NZ Seafood Industry Council applauds bold move to protect seabed habitats

"The BPAs (benthic protection areas) are the largest marine conservation area in the world and represent a bold move to protect seabed habitats, says the New Zealand Seafood Industry Council's chief executive Owen Symmans.

"New Zealanders should be very proud that our government and industry can work together to create this astounding legacy for our children and grandchildren."

The Minister of Fisheries should be applauded for the hard work that he has personally committed to ensuring that the BPA plan proposed by industry last year is now going to be implemented, Mr Symmans said.

"He has supported the proposals and remained committed from the outset. We congratulate the Minister unreservedly."