A panel and a terms of reference have been announced for a ministerial inquiry into foreign charter fishing vessels.
The investigation follows accusations of ill-treatment of workers aboard some foreign charter vessels, including inhumane working conditions, physical and sexual abuse.
Former Labour government minister Paul Swain will chair the panel. It also includes Broadcasting Commission chair Neil Walter and Sarah McGrath, whose portfolio includes analysing the cost of managing the deepwater fisheries resource.
Fisheries Minister Phil Heatley says he had to ensure all panel members were independent of the fishing industry.
Mr Heatley says the objectives of the panel are broad, including protecting New Zealand's international reputation and trade access, and ensuring acceptable and equitable labour standards on all fishing vessels.
