The
Draft Tasmanian Salmon Industry Plan released in Parliament today, appears on
first reading to have failed Tasmanians.
The
Minister for Primary Industries and Water was in a position to boldly lead the
nation when it comes to aquaculture and our ocean economy, yet much of this
draft plan is focused on managing past negativity.
The
plan does little to recognise and realise the full potential of Tasmania’s
oceans and our potential opportunity to sustainably feed Australia and the
world.
Being an ‘industry’ plan is the first
misstep – this could have been a plan for all who participate in our ocean
economy – not just industry.
It is also concerning that the government has released a work plan before the
consultation process has even finished. Have they already deemed the feedback
irrelevant?
The
government has given Tasmanians more of the same ‘tell not consult’ rather than
provided a contemporary outlook.
This plan could have delivered Tasmanians
an ambitious way forward and provided an invitation to positively participate
in our ocean economy.
Instead,
the government has placed its priority on regulation rather than having an eye
to the future and identifying pathways to support new innovations that showcase
our skills and talents and build trust and confidence.
The
Tasmanian aquaculture industry is looking for increased certainty from the
Liberal Government and confidence that the state is again open for investment.
I encourage Tasmanians and industry to provide their clear feedback to the draft plan and look forward to the government lifting their sights and considering the full potential of our ocean economy.
Janie Finlay MP
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries and Water
