Claims are misleading (From Western Telegraph)

Claims are misleading

10:48am Wednesday 30th May 2012 in Letters

Dear Editor:- Your article on 23/5/12 "Fear marine conservation zones will kill area" showed a great misunderstanding of what Highly Protected Marine Conservation Zones might mean for the proposed areas in Pembrokeshire.

Suggestions that recreational boat owners and even children playing in rock pools could find their activities curbed is simply misguiding the public. These comments do not a give a balanced view of what these new areas of protection could mean for the county.

The Marine Conservation Society supports the concept of Highly Protected sites, where, like nature reserves on land, wildlife has a safe haven, and activities that could be damaging will be managed. The key thing is that the Highly Protected sites will exclude few activities, these mainly relating to fishing , and most recreational activities are very unlikely to be controlled in any way unless they are causing damage or disturbance.

As the article pointed out we are at a consultation stage where everyone is free to voice and describe their support or concerns about any of the particular proposals – even boundaries are currently flexible. We would urge readers to take part in the consultation here: www.wales.gov.uk/consultations and look at the frequently asked question document which outlines the WG’s initial thoughts .Visit www.mcsuk. org to see just how this sort of protection has been a success in other parts of the world.

Gill Bell MCS Wales Programme Manager