Tasmanian Labor continues our strong support of the state’s salmon industry as measures are put in place to protect the Maugean Skate in Macquarie Harbour.
Labor welcomes the Federal Government’s commitment of $2.15 million to develop a Maugean Skate captive breeding program and acknowledges the release of the independent federal assessment into the Maugean Skate by the Threatened Species Scientific Committee today.
Members of the Threatened Species Scientific Committee were appointed by the former Federal Liberal Government and have repeatedly consulted with the Tasmanian Liberal Government on this issue.
We will take the time to review the report and fully understand the findings.
The Rockliff Government must now work with salmon participants to ensure a strong future for the state’s largest primary industry, which generates nine out of 10 jobs in regional areas and generates $1.36 billion annually to the Tasmanian economy. Tasmanian Labor stand by the workers, the industry and the West Coast community.
The salmon industry already adheres to strict environmental standards and the state government must work with the sector and other stakeholders to ensure that salmon farming can continue to prosper on the West Coast and across Tasmania.
Tasmania’s salmon industry is one of the state’s greatest success stories and it is important that the minority Liberal government supports this sector and provides opportunities for growth and innovation, rather than holds it back.
Securing the future of the Maugean Skate and the future of the Salmon Industry in Tasmania requires sound science and a balanced approach.
Tasmanian Labor is excited to back in the selective breeding program and looks forward to receiving updates on the progress.
Janie Finlay MP
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries and Water
