Animal welfare disaster! NOFF calls on RSPCA to rescind Huon Aquaculture endorsement

Drone footage sourced by the Bob Brown Foundation was published by the ABC today, showing live fish at the South of Zuidpool Rock lease operated by Huon Aquaculture being smothered in a box with diseased carcasses. This raises major animal welfare concerns for the public, who place their trust in the RSPCA endorsement when purchasing endorsed products.

Jess Coughlan, campaigner at Neighbours of Fish Farming said that "This footage confirms what we already knew - that the Salmon farming industry operating in Tasmanian waterways is an animal welfare nightmare. The RSPCA risks the reputation of their entire endorsement range if they continue to lend their label to Huon Aquaculture."

"We challenge Huon Aquaculture to provide evidence to the contrary that this system of operating a diseased lease is business as usual"

"Shoppers rely on certifications and endorsements such as the RSPCA to make informed consumer choices that fit their values. Live animals suffering from disease that are left to suffocate to death absolutely should not earn the RSPCA badge that is displayed inshore alongside Huon Aquaculture farmed salmon."

"Neighbours of Fish Farming calls on RSPCA to immediately cease all endorsement of Tasmania farmed salmon in light of the evidence now in the public."

• All comments attributed to Jess Coughlan, noff7112@gmail.com, 0431684741