Rebecca Hubbard Marine Co-ordinator Environment Tasmania, MR Mar 18. Community left to do the work of government
MINISTER Llewellyn has once again taken a no-can-do approach to Tasmania’s precious environment and wildlife by raising the white flag over the sea star infestation on South Arm, leaving the entire clean-up to concerned community members.
“Minister Llewellyn’s response to the infestation of the Northern Pacific Sea Star on South Arm reflects his total disregard for the spectacular biodiversity values of our marine and coastal environment,” said Rebecca Hubbard, Marine Coordinator with Environment Tasmania.
“At a time when his ministry should be leading the way with investing resources into protecting our unique marine environment, Minister Llewellyn is set on raising the white flag. Whilst hundreds of volunteers spend hours doing everything they can to protect this important coastal area, Mr Llewellyn is doing nothing,” said Ms Hubbard.
There will be a community dive this Sunday from 0900, meeting at the park half way along Bayview Street Lauderdale. There will be an education, network and support component, and a dive component.
So far the community have removed approx two one hundred litre containers full of sea stars – this is an estimated 5-10% of what is left in the South end of the Bay.
“This is yet another example of why we need a ministerial reshuffle so that responsibility for biodiversity is moved to the Environment portfolio, and a dedicated team of people can be properly resourced to ensure the efficient and holistic management and protection of our crucially important wildlife and environment,” concluded Ms Hubbard.
For more information:
Rebecca Hubbard, Marine Coordinator 0401 854 912
W: www.et.org.au
A: PO Box 1073, Hobart TAS 7001
ET is Tasmania’s conservation council, representing over 25 environment groups across our island state.
Support our work to protect and sustain Tasmania’s spectacular marine environment by donating today at www.et.org.au
