Both houses of Parliament have now backed the community’s desire for greater transparency and stronger donations’ disclosure laws. Despite this, Premier Rockliff in Parliament refused to reveal whether Big Salmon has been donating to the Liberal Party.
Tasmania is in the midst of the largest salmon mortality event in our state’s history, and it’s causing an environmental and biosecurity crisis. The Government’s response has been slow, insipid and dismissive. People have a right to know whether this is because foreign-owned salmon multinationals have been stuffing the coffers of decision-makers.
The influence of salmon corporations on government policy is palpable. Why else would the Liberals continue to openly champion those companies that are causing marine harm. Why else would they ignore and demonise coastal communities desperate to protect their waterways?
We can only assume salmon corporations have donated large sums, part of the $13 million undisclosed funds to the Liberal Party in the last five years.
Declaring whether Huon Aquaculture, Tassal and Petuna have donated to the Liberal Party would give Tasmanians clarity. What do they have to hide? Is the Premier’s silence quid pro quo for donations received?
Premier Rockliff’s response to this huge marine crisis shows his lack of concern for the environment or respect for coastal communities. The new donation laws are something the Liberals have long resisted. The Greens look forward to communities shortly having full disclosure about which big corporations pull the strings of the Liberal party and its policies.
