By Adam Ray
Former Environment Minister and Nelson MP Nick Smith says a protest flotilla against salmon farming in the Marlborough Sounds is a desperate move. About 35 boats took to the Sounds today to highlight opposition to both expansion plans by King Salmon and the Government's handling of the issue.
“What King Salmon want to do is put out the equivalent of I think 58,000 cows basically crapping and doing their thing in here,” says Greens MP Steffan Browning.
Around 35 boats sailed to King Salmon's Ruakaka Bay operation, close to some of the proposed nine new farms.
Protesters are also angry the final decision will be made by an Environmental Protection Agency board, rather than the local council. The Government used the EPA after saying the salmon farm expansion was nationally significant.
“People are free to protest, but it looks desperate and disorganised,” says Mr Smith.
He says the protesters serve no purpose while the board was hearing evidence. But the flotilla organiser says Mr Smith and other Government figures hijacked the process.
“We will not just roll over and allow you to take over our public common,” says Peter Beech. “You have a big fight on your hands.”
Mr Beech had hoped for 100 boats today, but says there is strong local opposition to King Salmon. The company's chief executive disagrees and says most residents back the expansion.
“One of the reasons is that we can create 370 sustainable, high-paying jobs,” says Grant Rosewarne.
The EPA's independent board of inquiry will decide whether it supports or opposes King Salmon by the end of the year.
3 News
source: newshub archive
