Ms O’CONNOR – Is there any update on incidents of marine debris impeding navigation access or posing a risk to navigation access? You will remember, Miss Morris, I think we’ve had similar conversations before and there’s a genuine safety concern about marine debris. Some of it will come from fish farms, of course; some of it will come from other places. Is there any update for the committee on what MAST is finding over the past year or so? Have there been any significant marine debris incidents that have posed a safety risk potentially?
Ms MORRIS – Yes, it’s very much improved. Over the last few years, the improvements have been remarkable in terms of the debris, particularly from the aquaculture industry. We actually audit the marine farm markers, because obviously they provide some navigational safety measures, and through that process, we have authorised officers from NRE, and we have the ability to report back in relation to leads and lines outside of the actual zones and leases. It’s markedly improved.
Ms O’CONNOR – What do you put that down to?
Ms MORRIS – I think the aquaculture companies have been working very hard to improve that.
Ms O’CONNOR – To prevent their plastics entering the ocean, along with the rest of the plastic.
Ms MORRIS – Individually, the companies have programs, and I know NRE have been working hard too in terms of the zero‑tolerance policy. It’s a marked improvement.
Ms O’CONNOR – Good to hear.
