Brooks hits out at seal shifts to North

THE North-West Coast should not be a dumping ground for animals relocated from fish farms, says Braddon Liberal MP Adam Brooks.

Mr Brooks said the salmon industry’s problem with seals should not be inflicted on commercial and recreational fishers in the region and he would raise the issue with Primary Industries Minister Jeremy Rockliff and Environment Minister Matthew Groom.

Salmon producer Tassal relocated more than 2000 seals from its southern farms last financial year.

Huon Aquaculture and Petuna no longer relocate seals.

“While I absolutely support the salmon industry and the jobs it brings across regional Tasmania, it has become clear that the relocation of seals is not a sustainable practice and cannot continue long-term,” Mr Brooks said.

“Seals can do costly damage to fishing nets and prey on our wild fisheries.

“Those who derive their livelihoods from fishing or who simply enjoy casting a line would sympathise with the salmon industry about the problems posed by seals. But that does not mean that the industry’s problem should become their problem.”

A Tassal spokesman said the company understood the frustrations and had met with stakeholders.

He said the company recognised the importance of reducing numbers and Tassal was investing in new pens that would ensure greater protection of wildlife from negative interactions.

“Tassal believes that as these pens continue to roll out there will be a significant reduction in the number of seal relocations,” he said.

The Tasmanian Greens called for relocation to end.

The Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party has also raised concerns, saying the predators were well-established and affecting protected penguin and seabird populations.