Survey shows salmon decision unpopular

AAP General News (Australia)
08-17-1999
Survey shows salmon decision unpopular

HOBART, Aug 17 AAP - Tasmanians overwhelmingly reject a recent decision to allow uncooked
salmon into Australia, according to a survey released today.

The survey was hailed by the fishing lobby, which is fighting the decision by the
Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) to allow the salmon in.

The salmon industry and recreational fishers fear the imported fish would carry diseases
that would devastate salmon farms, trout and native fish.

The survey, by Hobart political consultant Adam Grover and Associates, found 88 per cent of
236 Tasmanian respondents did not believe the new AQIS policies were in the national interest.

Ninety per cent believed the Tasmanian government should fight the decision in the High
Court.

Mr Grover said the survey showed a deep popular resistance to the change.

National Anglers Recreational Lobby spokesman Harvey Taylor said the survey confirmed the
concerns that have been expressed by anglers around Australia.

The lobby is pushing for a moratorium on the change while a Senate committee inquires into
it.

AAP dw/kr

KEYWORD: SALMON

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