Jeremy Rockliff’s statement today on the salmon industry is a cynical attempt to misrepresent Tasmanian Labor’s clear support for the industry – and simply creates unwelcome politics and more confusion for the industry.
Mr Rockliff’s announcement today flies in the face to what the Liberals announced less than a year ago – and creates more uncertainty for industry.
The Premier says the Liberals will continue their “clear commitment to no moratoriums” even though they have already imposed one, he says there will be no new taxes even though they just slapped a massive tax on industry, and that they will “consider reform”.
Are the Liberals committed to the plan they announced in May last year or are they ripping it up? At this point, their position is as clear as mud.
Then there are the blatant lies about Labor wanting to shut down aquaculture in Macquarie Harbor.
Tasmanian Labor has been unwavering in our support for the industry – just three weeks ago we made a submission to the Federal Government’s review of salmon farming, reiterating that support.
We believe that salmon farming is vitally important to Tasmania and to the communities on the West Coast – and we are confident that the industry, and the jobs it creates, can coexist with the Maugean Skate in Macquarie Harbour.
Tasmanian Labor backs the salmon industry and we look forward to working with the sector and community to ensure it continues to be a pillar of our regional communities and our Tasmanian economy.
Janie Finlay MP
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries and Water