Labor Join Greens in Opposing Growth in State’s Aquaculture Industry

Once again Bryan Green and Labor are siding with the Greens and opposing a Tasmanian industry.

Labor has jumped on the Green bandwagon to oppose the Liberal Government’s efforts to support growth in the aquaculture industry and create new jobs.

Mr Green told the ABC he opposed reducing red and green tape:

“Remember, that the Marine Farm Planning Authority have knocked back farms in the past and put very rigorous environmental law around the establishment of farms. They need to be monitored. There needs to be assurances provided.”*

In reality the Marine Farm Planning Review Panel (not the authority) and the Board of Advice and Reference are examples of Labor red tape in that the Minister remains responsible for making all of the decisions and the Department does all the leg work.

By working to cut this red and green tape, the Liberal Government is helping Tasmanian salmon producers to achieve a $1 billion a year industry by 2030.

The decision to abolish these bodies is part of the Liberal Government’s move to reduce red tape and streamline boards and committees.

A revised approach to marine farm planning will ensure appropriate and thorough environmental assessment while reducing unnecessary red and green tape.

Bryan Green and Labor should finally learn the lesson of the March election, divorce the Greens and support industries that create jobs for Tasmanians.
Paul Harriss, Acting Minister for Primary Industries and Water