FISHERY NEEDS.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVIII, Issue 38, 15 February 1937, Page 3

FISHERY NEEDS.

DOMINION MUST ACT. "UP AGAINST PROBLEMS." IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH. (By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) ROTORUA, this day. The need for scientific research in order to maintain New Zealand salt and fresh water fishing, and the decision of the Government to prosecute this form of research very vigorously, was referred to by the Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon. YV. E. Parry, in an interview before his departure from Rotorua on Saturday. • The Minister had just concluded a week's visit to the district, during which he inspected the acclimatisation activities of his Department here. He stated that, from his investigations and as a result of a conference held in Rotorua, he was satisfied that New Zealand had long ago exhausted its knowledge of fish and that intense research was necessary to guide the authorities in the proper development of the country's fisheries. "Everywhere I have been when matters connected with fisheries have arisen, I have found an almost bewildering conflict of opinion as to what should be done to keep our fish up to standard," said the Minister. "It seems to me that no set of anglers can be found whose views are in agreement as to what is needed to improve our fish. I have made a point of discussing the position with experienced men in this and other districts, but I have found all their opinions and suggestions at variance. I think we have completely exhausted our knowledge of fish and. holding that view, I am inclined to cheer the decision of the Government to treat the question of fish research as important. We must now have something more than experience to guide us. That is certain. I am concerned lest we should not be able to keep our fisheries at the standard they are now. It would be a calamity if they reached the stage of fishing in America, for instance." The Minister went on to say that the Fish Research Department was tackling ite job very well. "I think a conversation with any member of the' staff of the Department would convince any fisherman of the problems we are up j against with our fish," concluded Mr. Parr v.