NSW GOVERNMENT RELEASES DISCUSSION PAPER ON LIFE JACKETS FOR ROCK FISHERS The NSW Government has released a public Discussion Paper on the wearing of lifejackets by rock fishers to assist the Government in considering options to reduce drowning. “Addressing all the risk factors for drowning is a key aspect of water safety in NSW,” Minister for Police and Emergency Services Michael Gallacher said. “The Government is now inviting submissions from rock fishers and other interested parties on the wearing of lifejackets by rock fishers,” Minister Gallacher said. According to the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2012, 11% of the 105 people who drowned in NSW in 2011-12 were rock fishing. “The release of this Paper allows the public, including rock fishers to be involved in the discussion process regarding water safety. “Every drowning and rescue operation that occurs also puts emergency service workers at risk, so the Government’s focus is about finding better solutions to stop tragedies from occurring. “Any and all options to keep rock fishers safe will be considered by the Water Safety Advisory Council. “Projects funded under the Water Safety Black Spots Fund will assist the Government in identifying what actions can be taken to reduce the number of drowning deaths along the coast. “Since 2011, this Government has rolled out $4 million in ‘black spot’ funding to 11 organisations which have a focus on reducing the rate of drowning deaths in NSW. “A further $4 million has also been earmarked for additional ‘black spot’ funding over the next two years. “The Government has already allocated $320,000 to the Recreational Fishing Alliance to fund projects including rock fishing safety workshops. “Water safety is a priority for this Government and we welcome submissions which may assist in reducing the number of drowning deaths,” Minister Gallacher concluded. Submissions can be made until 30 September 2013 via the Government’s online survey portal: haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au
Posted on: Thu, 29 Aug 2013 09:17:20 +0000
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