Fishing ban reviewed

Councillors will discuss the fishing ban at the Memorial Park fishing lake at the town's members panel on Tuesday. Bay resident Andy Newell was incensed 'no fishing' signs had appeared at the lake and asked Councillor Ron Flaherty to raise the issue.

Byelaw 10 (iii) says it is illegal to "attempt to take, injure or destroy, any fish in any such water, or wilfully disturb or worry any waterfowl". But councillors spotted a loophole and decided that fishing might be allowed with barbless hooks and new signs should be installed. Officers had other ideas. They said:

"Legal and other officers have reviewed this matter and advise that fishing is prohibited by the byelaw. However, a review of byelaws will come forward during the new administrative year."

HB Times 10th Jun 2011