Fishing Rights Allocation Process 2015/16 (“FRAP 2015/16”): Extension of distribution period in Lamberts Bay
On the 23rd of November 2015, the Branch Fisheries Management of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, commenced with the distribution of application forms in 32 centres across the Republic of South Africa. Some of the centres were opened for one (1) week, two (2) weeks and three (3) weeks depending on the current number of right holders in those identified areas and the occurrence of the fisheries sectors due for re-allocation in those areas. Prospective applicants were given an opportunity to apply for a right in terms of section 18 of the Marine Living Resources Act (Act No. 18 of 1998).
Doring Bay and Elands Bay were one of the centres opened for one (1) week. There was an immense interest in the application forms for West Coast Rock Lobster Nearshore (“WCRL nearshore”) Zone B in both areas and Lamberts Bay. As such, application forms ran out and prospective applicants were turned away. The Department procured more application forms for WCRL nearshore Zone B; however, the supplier could not deliver on time due to a backlog.
After considering the above mentioned interruptions and the availability of application forms in the WCRL nearshore Zone B sector, the Honorable Minister of the Department has decided to extend the distribution period in Lamberts Bay for a further one (1) week, i.e., until 16H00, Friday 11 December 2015.
It should be noted that all prospective applicants that were turned away in Doring Bay and Elands Bay are also encouraged to go and apply for the WCRL nearshore Zone B in Lamberts Bay.
For further media enquiries contact:
Palesa Mokomele
Tel: 021 402 3911
Cell: 082 9041908
E-mail: PalesaM@daff.gov.za
