Fish farms remain a catastrophic impact on Maugean Skate population and its chances of survival despite today’s revelations.
Today’s announcement of increased Maugean Skate population is welcomed but fish farms must still be removed from Macquarie Harbour if the species is to have any chance of long-term survival.
Bob Brown Foundation is very concerned Prime Minister Albanese has announced his intention to introduce legislation to protect the toxic polluting salmon industry and not the environment.
“The news of increased Maugean Skate population represents the Federal Governments best chance to save the Maugean Skate from extinction,” said Alistair Allan, Bob Brown Foundation’s marine campaigner.
“Our Federal environment department concluded that salmon farms in Macquarie Harbour have a catastrophic impact on the survival of the Maugean Skate. PM Anthony Albanese and Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek can act now, and seize this opportunity to rescue the Maugean Skate,” said Alistair Allan
“If the population of white rhinos suddenly went up, would that be a signal to let poachers back in? No. It would be rightfully seen as the moment to protect those rhinos at all costs.”
“Australians everywhere want action and leadership taken to protect Australia’s environment and wildlife, which could only serve the PM well so close to an election.”
“The new report suggests that the increase coincides with improved oxygen levels, that we know came from a naturally occurring ocean recharge event. This was a lifeline extended to the Maugean Skate by nature and has very little to do with any of the oxygenation barges. Every day that fish farms remain in Macquarie Harbour has a catastrophic impact.”
“It would be unconscionable to let this moment pass by and allow an animal as old as the dinosaurs to disappear from Earth forever,” said Alistair Allan.
IMAS report:
