GBRMPA review in Senate this week

[Chris Ryan]

To all our Northern Family,

Currently in Canberra is the reviewed legislation changes to the GBRMPA Act.

Changes they are trying to push through are very concerning and almost reads as the introduction of socialist political agendas. The amendment Bill has gone off the track in ways that concern us greatly, especially the “Precautionary Principle”. The amendments will enshrine this far reaching “principle” in legislation. It is without doubt the single most undemocratic and frightening section, and the one we urge you to fight with the most vigour.


12 Subsection 3(1)
Insert
precautionary principle means the principle that lack of full
scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing a
measure to prevent degradation of the environment where there are
threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage.
(emphasis added)

This is the principle that we see so often used to shut down recreational activities that do no damage whatsoever. The inclusion of this in the Act is a 180 degree departure from the recommendations of the 2006 review, vis:

•Nevertheless, the Review Panel is of the view that the processes for engagement with all stakeholders can be improved. The Review Panel has made recommendations with regard to the need for transparent scientific and socio-economic analyses, consultation and measures which will improve the accountability of the Authority.

•To undertake these things effectively, more attention needs to be given to monitoring the use of the Marine Park and the performance of management measures, assessing future risks and pressures, and analysing biophysical, social and economic factors necessary to support consideration of any changes to the level, area or type of protection.


So the review states in public service speak that the GBRMPA did a lousy job of using science and other factors to justify the closures and needs to do better. The response of GBRMPA is to push “precautionary principle” amendments to the Act that will mean that science and especially social and economic factors have no influence whatsoever.

I am astonished to believe tha a Government will "precautionary" do something just in case something may happen down the track.


Also the Authority and the Minister have the right to ban people from the reef if found guilty for a period of up to 10 years - at their discretion, with the onus of proof still residing with the accused.

As GBRMPA is the template for the rest of Australia, the net effect of these amendments will be far reaching.

So if you see these changes will allow more closures and feel that it will echo around Australia (and Moreton Bay) then I urge you to write a letter (not an email) to your local Federal Member and also the Senators from Queensland about your concern and do it now and enmass.

If you need info on how to find your federal member of parliament and the senators, reply here and I will dig up the links.

Chris

[kc]

Chris is dead right to ring alarm bells here.

Both Senators Fielding and Joyce have received private briefings on this issue . Funadmentally what the review will attempt to do is shift the overall classification of the GBR marine park from a "recreational park" to a "research facility"......this is not in the text but a "take" on the overall thurst of the legislation.

The other elephant in the room is the installation of the "precautionary principle" (it used to be called.....common sense) into all zoning considerations and while on the surface it appears fair and reasonable to lock something up without any scientfic evidence if we "think" it may be damaged, in practice this power is being given to "potential zealots"...that's dangerous.

In current legisation the priniciple and underlying role of the authority was to manage the park while allowing reasonable and sustainable use.

I know all the usual "buzz words" will be trotted out about protecting the park for future generation etc etc but in reality the "park" is not in danger.....most certainly not from recreational fishing & boating.......................

I'm glad I'm 50 and I'm glad there is no GBR in Weipa...at least I have something to look forward to a few weeks a year.

Whats starts on the GBR is coming to a store near you!!