Australia's prime minister Anthony Albanese has pledged to introduce legislation ensuring the continuation of salmon farming in Tasmania's Macquarie Harbor, pledging that no jobs would be lost following environmental assurances, reports ABC.

This decision follows recent scientific findings indicating that oxygenation efforts have stabilized the population of the endangered Maugean skate, a species native to the harbor. 

Conservationists argue that ongoing salmon farming could jeopardize the Maugean skate's survival, potentially leading to its extinction and contravening environmental laws. Eight conservation councils have expressed concerns that new legislation favoring the industry might override existing environmental protections, setting a harmful precedent for other protected areas, the Guardian reported.

"The introduction of special legislation for industry poses a serious threat not just to the ancient endangered Maugean skate, but to Australia's nature laws and the many threatened species that rely on them, our globally renowned world heritage areas, as well as Tasmanian and Australia's international standing and reputation," said James Overington, CEO at Environment Tasmania.

Last week, the PM confirmed the introduction of special legislation ensuring salmon farming remains in Macquarie Harbor. Later, it was reported that salmon industry CEOs had sent a letter to the PM demanding that the legislation be passed before the end of the term.

Salmon industry leaders have also voiced frustration over the lack of legislative details and timelines and urged immediate action to secure jobs and industry stability, the Australian reported.