A government interdepartmental working group today announced that it has formulated action plans to strengthen the management of oyster farming activities in Deep Bay, including limiting the number of oyster rafts.

The group, which is responsible for tackling management issues of oyster rafts in Deep Bay, plans to delineate oyster farming areas there and regulate oyster farming activities in the areas, including limiting the number of oyster rafts and putting in place effective management measures.

It earlier completed a freezing survey of the number and locations of oyster rafts in Deep Bay. Any oyster rafts installed after the survey or existing rafts that are not allowed to operate after the plans' implementation, must be removed before a deadline to be specified later. Otherwise, enforcement action will be taken according to the Shipping & Port Control Ordinance.

The group noted that the significant increase in the number of oyster rafts in the vicinity of Deep Bay in recent years has affected the coastal environment and navigational safety, resulting in the Government having to take necessary measures to step up management.

In addition to explaining the management approach to oyster farming industry representatives, the working group will continue to keep close liaison with stakeholders and collect their views on the management plan.

The group comprises representatives from the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department, the Lands Department, Police, the Marine Department, the Environmental Protection Department, and the Home Affairs Department.

Affected oyster farmers can call 2150 7093, fax 2314 2866 or email the working group.