Division 7.6.1

As the estimated loss of landings is expected to be an over estimate (as a result of the limited fishing activity using bottom towed gear over the bedrock reef feature) it is expected that the impact on the fishing fleet from this closure will be limited. A number of affected fishers stated during pre-consultation meetings that bottom towed gear is not deployed over the bedrock reef feature as this would damage their gear. The French and Belgian fishing industry representatives confirmed that there will be a loss of fishing grounds around the Western and Northern areas of the Cape Bank prohibited area however alternative fishing grounds are easily accessible.