Revolt over new marine zone plans (From Western Telegraph)

Revolt over new marine zone plans

1:27pm Friday 31st August 2012 in Letters

OVER the last 40 years I have had the pleasure of being a member of Abercastle Boat Owners.

We are now in a state of crisis brought about by the Welsh Government. They are calling for a total Marine Conservation Zone between Strumble Head and Porthgain, which includes Abercastle.

We are not against the conservation of our coastline or the preservation of fish stocks, but do object strongly to the Welsh Government’s imposition of unjustified proportions of all activities in the area.

There would be a total ban on the limited amount of commercial fishing, along with a ban on kayaks and coasteering, even criminalising children playing in the rock pools. All boat moorings would have to be removed.

The local tourist trade relies on the unspoilt nature of this area and without tourists many businesses will close. These restrictions would provide no economic benefit to the area at all.

The people who bring about these pearls of wisdom think that banning all activities in an area ticks all the boxes, it is not true. It is good management that keeps these places fit for purpose.

Over centuries this inlet, which once served the area commercially, has today become a well-run, wellorganised facility for small style commercial fishing and pleasure boating, with fun on the beach.

A petition against this socalled conservation zone has been signed by 1,200 supporters.

We are grateful and thank you for your support.

Maybe at our next committee meeting we will have to discuss who will pay for the sign which reads: Everything in this bay is banned – Croeso i Gymru.

DAVID NICHOLAS Chairman Abercastle Boat Owners Trefin