Rumours around Crayfish allocations
There has been a rumour going around that the total allowable catch for crayfish for the upcoming season will go up from 2 167.06 tons to 5000 tons. This is not the case. In fact, the Total Allowable Catch for crayfish for the next season has not yet been set and is waiting the minister’s decision.
The department has recommended a TAC according to the status of the South African Marine Fishery resources report and will announce it as soon as the minister takes a decision.
Last year, the then deputy director general for fisheries management reasserted DAFF’s commitment to the implementation of the WCRL operational management plan aimed at the recovery of the resource.
He said, the department will remain steadfast in their unwavering commitment to manage South African Fishery resources in an ecologically sound manner based on proven scientific principles. He further said that DAFF were committed to contribute to development of impoverished coastal communities. (DAFF media Statement – 2013, November 6)
Masifundise wishes to encourage DAFF to make these words a reality in line with the objectives of our democratic dispensation.
Masifundise has also urged fisher folk to please verify information they hear before they disseminate it to others. Masifundise is committed to assist fishers to obtain correct information at all time, for clarity and relevant information do contact the office.