What has Garrett told Bligh about the dam?
29th September, 2009
Federal Member for Wide Bay Warren Truss, today called upon Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett, to publicly release his response to the draft conditions that the Queensland Government suggests should be imposed on the proposed Traveston Crossing dam.“The response that Peter Garrett sent last Friday to the Queensland Government would provide the strongest indication yet as to whether or not he will allow the dam to go ahead,” Mr Truss said.
“I am concerned and amazed that Mr Garrett could have completed his assessment of the draft conditions that were provided to him by the Queensland Coordinator General so quickly, and has already provided confidential advice to the State Labor Government.
“The public has a right to know whether Peter Garrett is standing up to the State Labor Government and defending the environment and the Mary Valley, or whether he is giving in to the Labor machine,” Mr Truss said.
Mr Truss said the environment should not be sacrificed in Labor secrecy.
“Everyone deserves to know what Mr Garrett has to say about the dam. The fate of endangered and threatened species, the RAMSAR protected Great Sandy Straits and the entire Mary Valley rests on his decision.
“I challenge Peter Garrett to reflect on his pre-Parliamentary career where he defended the environment and preached openness as a virtue, and apply the same standards now to the Traveston Crossing dam.
“Mr Garrett must release his advice and give the public an opportunity to comment on the adequacy of the conditions.”
