Fishing permit allocations: DA WC calls fair and transparent process

Dear Editor

The DA in the Western Cape calls on the National Minister of the Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries, Minister Barbara Creecy, to act immediately to guarantee that the allocation of fishing licenses to Western Cape fishermen and the fishing industry at large follows a fair and transparent appeal process.

MPP Andricus van der Westhuizen says, “There have been numerous complaints from the fishing community that small-scale fishermen who previously held licenses have now been unsuccessful in the outcomes of the Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP), whilst larger corporate companies have allegedly received preferential treatment.

Small-scale fishermen make up the long-established and historic fishing community of the Western Cape. These individuals rely on their fishing licenses for financial security and to put food on the table. By revoking their licences without any apparent due process, the National Government has, therefore, threatened their livelihoods.

The FRAP should guarantee that every applicant is given a reasonable chance during the appeal process. Individuals who are not in the fishing sector should not be granted permits.

The DA calls on the aggrieved parties to exercise their right of appeal before the extended due date of 29 July 2022. In my capacity as the chairperson for the Standing Committee on Environmental Affairs, I will approach the Department of Environmental Affairs in the Western Cape to request that they engage their National counterparts to ensure that the due, fair and transparent processes are followed in the allocation of fishing licences. We cannot condone any manipulation of the FRAP.”

Regards

Andricus van der Westhuizen, MPP
DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Agriculture