Media Release – Government Response to the Fin Fish Farming Inquiry Report

Independent Member for Nelson Meg Webb stated today there is a lot riding on the Government’s 10 Year Salmon Plan, currently under development.

“The Government has chosen to release its response to the Fin Fish Farming in Tasmania Inquiry Report today,” Ms Webb, who was Chair of the Inquiry, said.

“The reality is, the social licence of the salmon farming industry in Tasmania has been severely damaged due to the shortcomings over many years of Government regulation and planning.”

Ms Webb said the Fin Fish Inquiry highlighted restoring public confidence in Government oversight will require transparent, accountable planning and decision making.

“This must clearly be based on evidence and science, as well as effective engagement and input from the community.”

Ms Webb said the Government response points to the 10 Year Salmon Plan as the apparent panacea to dozens of recommendations made by the Inquiry.

“Clearly, a lot is riding on this 10 Year Salmon Plan.

“Seemingly, it will resolve everything from comprehensive marine spatial planning, data collection and publication, setting of fees and levies, review of legislation, through to enforcement, penalties, wildlife management and much more.

“The Government is setting a high bar for the Plan, and should expect to be held to account for meeting it.”

Ms Webb said the Government has essentially rejected the Report recommendation to reduce current in-shore salmon farming operations.

“Environmental damage and community impact from salmon farming has been greatest in current inshore farming areas.

“This was again highlighted by the recent release of the IMAS report into the Long Bay area at Port Arthur.

“The Inquiry made a clear recommendation that Government develop a plan in consultation with industry, scientific and community stakeholders, to reduce inshore fin fish farming sites, with priority given to ceasing operations in sensitive, sheltered and biodiverse areas.

“The Government response has effectively endorsed the current in-shore farming operations, suggesting that the EPA is managing those areas appropriately.

“This response risks further inflaming conflict and will contribute to the breakdown of public confidence to the detriment of both communities and the industry.

“With the Tasmanian salmon industry soon to be entirely multinational owned, there must be no doubt that Government planning and regulation of the industry prioritises the best interests of the Tasmanian people and environment.”

Media Contact: A.Mark Thomas, M&M Communications, 0422 006 732

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