Residents near fish farm raise concerns

A PARLIAMENTARY inquiry has heard concerns from Tasmanians living near fish farms about the already significant industry’s aim to double in size.

A Legislative Council committee is conducting an inquiry into the Sustainable Industry Growth Plan for the Salmon Industry and the regulation of the industry.

The $1 billion industry has a target of becoming a $2 billion industry by 2030.

Community groups Bruny Sustainable Aquaculture and Neighbours of Fish Farming outlined how the expansion of fish farms in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel was negatively impacting on residents.

Twenty-four hour noise and light from farm operations, pollution of waterways and marine debris were the key concerns.

Associate Professor Catriona MacLeod outlined the Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies’ involvement in research around fish farming.

Prof MacLeod said IMAS was not consulted by the State Government when it formulated its blueprint for where new fish farms could be established in Tasmania. “Exactly how the areas were developed within the Sustainable Growth Plan, we have not been directly involved in that,” she said.

Tasmanian Conservation Trust director Peter McGlone outlined the Trust’s concerns about the Marine Farming Planning Review Panel, which assesses fish farms.

These included a lack of transparency around the process, the veto powers of the minister and the lack of public appeal avenues.

“How can we have a democratic process about a public resource when you don’t explain your decision and make it public?” Mr McGlone said.

Hearings continue today.