Two people have been arrested and charged following a protest by Animal Liberation Tasmania on the Tasman Bridge About 8am this morning.

A 22 year old man from Howrah and a 29 year old woman from Rosny were charged with Trespass and Create a Common Nuisance under the Criminal Code.

The two people allegedly climbed onto the gantry on top of the Tasman Bridge and hooked themselves onto the bridge.

Both people will be bailed to appear at the Hobart Magistrates Court at a later date.

Acting Inspector Philippa Burk said that the two people voluntarily removed themselves from the bridge following police negotiation.

“Tasmania Police appreciates that people have the democratic right to protest but actions such as what occurred this morning will not be tolerated,” Acting Inspector Burk said.

“Peak hour traffic was thrown into chaos, the safety of the two protesters on the gantry of the bridge was a risk and the actions of the protesters could have resulted in a traffic crash on the bridge.”

There were approximately 20 – 30 protesters on the walkway of the bridge from the same group waving placards. They were allowed to remain on the bridge.