The Albanese Labor Government is abandoning Tasmania's sustainable, job-rich salmon industry, giving its strongest indication yet that it intends on shutting down the industry on the West Coast, cutting 500 plus jobs.
Acting Premier, Michael Ferguson, said the announcement by the Federal Labor Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek to commence consultation that will potentially end salmon farming in Macquarie Harbour is devastating for those who depend on this industry for work.
"At the very same time that Ms Plibersek has moved in on our industry, the Albanese Labor Government has proposed to work with the Rockliff Liberal Government to 'unlock economic opportunities' for the west coast region," the Acting Premier said.
"Let's be clear and call this for what it is. There won't be anything to 'unlock' if Labor shut down our primary productions sectors and people are forced to leave for jobs elsewhere. It will destroy the West Coast economy.
"Labor are moving on jobs in Tasmania. But why should we expect anything else from the Labor party both in Canberra and in Tasmania who have form when it comes to sacrificing Tasmanian jobs in search of green preferences in inner city seats around the country. They did it with timber, and now they are doing it with salmon.
"The salmon industry on the West Coast supports over 500 Tasmanians. That's hundreds of parents and schoolkids who depend on this industry and workers who have a right to go to work and put food on the table for their families whose jobs are at risk by this action.
"We won't stand for it. We will not take a kick in the guts and accept money in the pocket at the same time.
"As we have done for months, the Rockliff Liberal Government will continue to argue for and fight for these workers every single day throughout this period of consultation.
"Our message to the Federal Labor Government is clear – do not come down to our State and shut down industries and think cash will appease us.
"This sort of action will shut down regional towns and regional communities right across the nation should be scared that the Albanese Labor Government is coming for them next.
"And where is Tasmania's Labor Leader Rebecca White on this issue? She is MIA as usual, running a protection racket for the failures of the Albanese Labor Government, and desperately trying to shore up her own embattled leadership by announcing friendlies as hopeful candidates."
