Anti-salmon farm group Neighbours of Fish Farms has issued an apology for a protest banner which was displayed before last night’s Hillcrest Primary School tragedy memorial in Devonport.
Group president Peter George it was a mis-understanding and has expressed a sincere and unreserved apology to Devonport Mayor Allison Jarman and Premier Jeremy Rockliff.
Mr George says those involved thought it was a Christmas function being attended by the Premier.
“This would not have occurred had those involved been aware of the nature of the ceremony to come and the sadness of the occasion,” Mr George says.
“Inquiries should clearly have been made about the nature of the event beforehand and there is no good excuse for the failure to do so.
“The banner was removed immediately the reason for the event was learned.”
However, witnesses say the protesters had a clear view of the large screen in Market Square displaying “Forever in Our Hearts.”
Mr George says the apology and regret is offered to the people of Devonport and elsewhere who were attending the event who would rightly have been offended.
