DA wins access to scoring sheets for fishing rights allocation process

22 February 2024

In an effort to ensure transparency in the fishing sector, the DA applied in 2023 for the scoring sheets for the long-delayed Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP) via a Promotion of Access to Information Application (PAIA). This request has now been granted.

The awarding of rights in terms of the FRAP process has long been shrouded in mystery with many traditional fishing communities concerned that they were given a raw deal during the application process. Many of those who were unsuccessful and then chose to appeal were not given access to the forms submitted by successful applicants and therefore found it difficult to launch successful appeals.

The scoring sheets are being provided to the DA as they become available after some mandatory redactions. The DA will be going through these sheets to identify inconsistencies and will also make them available to anyone from the industry who requires access.

Statement issued by Dave Bryant MP - DA Shadow Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, 22 February 2024