August 7, 2000, Monday SA helps East Timorese fishers

ADELAIDE, Aug 7 AAP - Illegal fishing gear seized by South Australian authorities will be donated to East Timorese fishers.

Acting SA Premier Rob Kerin today also encouraged the state's fishers to donate equipment to help rejuvenate East Timorese fishing villages.

Mr Kerin said thousands of dollars worth of illegal fishing gear seized by Primary Industries and Resources fisheries compliance officers would be sent to East Timor next month.

"The fishing equipment is a very practical and valuable form of assistance to help the East Timorese people start the long, slow process of rebuilding their lives," he said in a statement.

Yorke Peninsula's commercial rock lobster fishers have collected more than 600kg of equipment for the shipment to East Timor, fisher Don Barran said.

"Fishermen have a special bond no matter where they live," he said in a statement.

"By contributing useable fishing gear we will enable these villagers to feed their families and regain their livelihood and dignity."

Mr Kerin said the closing date for SA's shipment was August 30. 

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