Media Release – Salmon Farming

Independent Member for Nelson today called on the Rockliff Liberal Government to listen to the call from Tasmanian communities to adopt Recommendation 3 of the Legislative Council Inquiry into Fin Fish Farming.

“I encourage the Rockliff Government to introduce a plan to reduce farming operations in in-shore sensitive and biodiverse areas,” Ms Webb said.

“The Government seems stuck in cheerleader mode for the salmon industry instead of prioritising effective regulation in stewardship of Tasmanian public waterways.”

Ms Webb said the Legislative Council Inquiry made a raft of balanced and fair recommendations.

“This included Recommendation 3, calling for a plan to reduce farming operations in in-shore sensitive and biodiverse areas.

“Rather than dismiss this sensible recommendation out of hand, the Rockliff Government could take positive opportunities to give it effect.

“The retirement of in-shore leases up for renewal, particularly any not in current use, would demonstrate a responsiveness to community concern and confirm the industry’s future lies in off-shore and land-based sites.

Ms Webb said the only path for the salmon industry gaining social licence is to fix mistakes of the past.

“Tasmania needs to move away from farming in-shore areas which would never be considered suitable for industrial farming at the scale we now see.

“It’s time for the Government to champion the restoration of precious areas of Tasmania’s public waterways and the Tasmanian community who value them.”