A ministerial inquiry looking into allegations that foreign charter fishing boat crew members were subjected to physical, mental and sexual abuse has been reported back to the Government.
The inquiry into the operation of fishing vessels in New Zealand's exclusive economic zone waters was launched last year following allegations overseas crews were working in appalling conditions on chartered vessels fishing for New Zealand companies.
An Auckland University report told of "disturbing levels of inhumane conditions" on some vessels, and focused on the deaths of six men in the 2010 sinking of the Korean-flagged Oyang 70.
Primary Industries Minister David Carter and Labour Minister Kate Wilkinson received the report today and said they would consider the report and recommendations before announcing any decisions.
