[Greens-Media] Marine Protected Areas barely worthy of the name

[Ludlam, Scott (Sen R. Siewert)]

Senator Rachel Siewert
Australian Greens Senator for WA

MEDIA RELEASE


Friday, 5 May 2006

Marine Protected Areas barely worthy of the name

The Government's south-east Marine Protected Areas announcement
prioritises oil and gas drilling and industrial fishing at the expense
of conservation argues Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens
spokesperson on marine issues. 

"The Minister admits the new Marine Protected Areas will barely impact
on the industries which are putting marine ecosystems at risk." 

"The Minister's proposals in December were heavily criticised by the
conservation movement. Even this outcome has now been compromised by a
series of deletions, excisions and fudged definitions."

"In the light of World Conservation Union 'red list' revelations that
the marine environment is at risk of massive extinctions, I do not
understand how the Fisheries and Environment Ministers can publicly
support these measures," said Senator Siewert. 

"This is a let-down for conservation and a let-down for the future of
sustainable fisheries. The global scientific consensus is that we need
comprehensive, adequate and representative marine protected areas of
around 30% to ensure that ecosystems remain viable. Without this level
of protection, fisheries as a whole suffer."

"I can only recommend the Ministers concerned consult a dictionary and
check the definition of the word 'protected'", Senator Siewert said. 


For more information or comment call Chris Twomey on 0407 725 025
Email senator.siewert at aph.gov.au  |  http://www.rachelsiewert.org.au