The $1million program will take place over the next 18 months to reduce the build-up of silt, Premier David Bartlett announced at Launceston's homepoint wharf today.

“We are taking urgent action to clean up this river,” Mr Bartlett said.

“I understand the key importance of the Tamar River to this community, as well as the concern and anxiety many people, including local business operators, feel about its condition.

“That’s why we committed $6.5-million dollars at the state election, to find a comprehensive and lasting strategy for cleaning up the Tamar,” he said.

Mr Bartlett said he was disappointed that the Launceston City Council recently reneged on funding their share of ongoing dredging.

The government has now asked the Launceston City Council to fund further research into tackling the silt problem in the long term.

Read tomorrow's edition of The Examiner for more details.