Ravaged fishing industry deserves fair compensation

Shine Lawyers today confirmed they will take on the Gladstone harbour case and stand up for the local marine community ravaged by the development and dredging of the harbour.

Shine Lawyers Partner Rebecca Jancauskas said the dredging and development was causing irreparable damage to not only the local fisherman, but to the hundreds of other businesses relying on healthy marine life for sustainable business.

“The whole industry is suffering. We’ve got local businesses who can’t sell boats anymore, we’ve got large seafood processing outlets, which have been lying idle for months,” Ms Jancauskas said.

“Action needs to be taken now to ensure these people are compensated.”

In approving the development the State Government made provision for compensation to assist businesses reliant upon the harbour and fishing industry.

“We need compensation to address the broad economic impacts of development and dredging of the harbour on the dozens of businesses whose livelihoods now hang in the balance,” she said.

“We invite the government, the mining companies and the Ports Corporation to work with us to deliver fair compensation, which ensures the fishermen and the businesses that rely on the fishing industry in Gladstone get a fair go.”

 

Shine Lawyers are working with joint venture partner Law Essentials, who already represent more than 60 local fisherman and marine businesses

A free information seminar will be held at 6.30pm on Thursday 15 December at the Grand Hotel, Goondoon Street, Gladstone. Places are limited so call 13 11 99 or visit www.shine.com.au/Gladstone to register.

The seminar will cover issues including who has rights, compensation claims, the current position of the government and the next steps.