Andrea Dawkins MP | Greens Water and Environment spokesperson
The Greens will not be supporting the proposed changes to dam works in the Water Management Act in the amendment Bill tabled by Minister Rockliff.
Minister Rockliff is seeking to amend provisions of the Threatened Species Act, which is cause for alarm and poses a significant potential threat to the localised ecosystems, and ultimately the broader Tasmanian ecology.
This Bill would allow Tasmanian landholders to construct dams on their property without needing approval.
Waterways and rivers running through properties can be affected, which may be to the detriment of the water quality and aquaculture, not to mention possible contamination of drinking water.
Likewise, the result for farmers downstream could be catastrophic as land holders upstream effectively steal water from those further down the catchment.
While ecology and threatened species probably don’t rate highly on the list for the Liberal Government, it’s difficult to imagine why they would want to prioritise some farmers over others, not to mention the future health and success of the aquaculture industry.