Disruption to operations at EP Cruises was addressed by Member for Flinders Sam Telfer in Parliament this week.
The local business has struggled with red tape enforced by the Tourism and Environment Departments, making it difficult for the company to carry out overnight visits to the Nuyts Archipelago and the Investigator Group of islands.
Minister Telfer said the tourism operator provided the service for a short while.
“The Environment Department decided they wanted to add some additional regulation, restriction and red tape, and developed a Draft Island Management Plan which, if accepted by the Minister, will mean that this business will not be able to stay overnight, which will render the experience unable to be delivered because of its remoteness, the MP said.
“From my perspective, that’s completely unnecessary.”
The Minister spoke highly of the business during his speech.
“EP Cruises and Rod Keogh are incredibly conscientious environmental managers who have spent significant funds but have been let down by actions and inactions from the Tourism and Environment Departments.
“I’m asking the Environment Minister to please intervene and allow this experience to continue.”
