COMMONWEALTH MUST HELP WITH NORTHERN DAMS

Sign Up for free e-mail updates!

At the Flinders River Water Forum in Hughenden today, Federal Opposition Spokesman on Northern Australia, Senator Ian Macdonald said that the Federal Government must play a role in development of water storages in the north.

“Although development of water storages is principally the constitutional responsibility of State Government there is a role for the Federal Government to play.”

Senator Macdonald told the Forum that the Federal Government had been instrumental in constructing the Snowy Mountains Scheme, the Ord River Scheme and the Burdekin Dam.

“In developing water storages on the Flinders and Gilbert Rivers the Commonwealth has an important part to play.”

“Environmental approval needs to be given by the Commonwealth but as well, the Commonwealth has to provide leadership and money.”

“The looming food crisis can only be addressed, if places like the Flinders and Gilbert River catchments, are converted to sustainable food production.”

“Unlike most other parts of Australia, and indeed the world, we do have an abundance of water and the experience and science to sustainably use our water and our soil.”

Senator Macdonald pledged his support to the Flinders and Richmond Shire Councils in their goal to provide irrigated farming in their regions.

More Media Releases