Rosalie Woodruff MP, Greens Environment spokesperson
“The Liberals’ new ten-year plan for fish farming in Tasmania is a clear admission they’re worried about the widespread backlash against their unqualified cheerleading for the industry.
“Since taking government, the Liberals have bent over backwards to defend the salmon industry, in the face of well-documented and increasing environmental damage, animal welfare concerns, and social impacts.
“In recent months, concern about the impact of fish farms has reached new heights, with thousands more Tasmanians – and Australians – becoming aware of the issue. But at every turn the Liberals have refused to admit these concerns have any legitimacy whatsoever.
“This stubborn denialism has only angered the community further, and caused a massive political headache for the Liberal party. Now we have an announcement that’s designed to stop the political bleeding and save face.”
The new salmon strategy seems to contain some steps in the right direction, including full-cost recovery and new compliance measures, but does not properly address the concerns of Tasmanians who are worried about what’s already happening in our island’s waterways.
Peter Whish-Wilson, Greens Senator for Tasmania
“The Liberal’s change of aquaculture policy is clear evidence that the communities campaigning around Tasmania to protect their environment are making a difference.
“Unfortunately for the Liberals, the Tasmanian community will not be satisfied with what has been put on the table today. The grassroots, statewide campaign for the protection of the state’s coastline and waterways will continue.
“While commitments have been made to limit new leases, no commitment has been made to depart inshore coastal waters currently being damaged and made unlivable by industrial fish farming.
“There is still so much more required to fix fish farming in Tasmania, and the details of this plan will need to be scrutinized to ensure any reforms will lead to the real change that is needed.”