Conservation groups say they’re considering legal action against the Department of Primary Industries for breaching their own disentanglement plans.
It follows an incident earlier this month, in which Sea Shepherd alleges contractors refused to rescue live rays entangled in one of the nets off Ballina.
“The preliminary advice seemed to agree with what our thoughts were which is they could be in breach of their own management plans that clearly states that all live animals must be released”
They say leaving marine animals entangled in nets could also lead to an increased risk of shark attacks.
“Would you feel particularly comfortable going to a beach knowing that live animals were being left to struggle and die, therefore becoming an attractant for passing marine predators”
The Department of Primary Industries is yet to respond.
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