A federal inquiry is required to investigate explosive allegations of illegal land clearing and water extraction, aired on the ABCs Four Corners program. The Greens say the undue influence of the cotton lobby on the NT Government requires an independent federal investigation.
Senator Sarah Hanson-Young is Greens spokesperson for Environment:
“Four Corners has revealed shocking allegations of illegal land clearing, over-allocation and extraction of water and serious environmental damage.
“If these allegations are true, the cotton lobby appears to be gaming the system by taking too much water, engaging in illegal land clearing, wrecking rivers and the environment, and trashing First Nations rights.
“The alleged conflicts of interest between the cotton lobby and the NT government are concerning. Only a federal inquiry at arms length from the NT Government and the cotton lobby will be able to get to the truth.
“We need a full independent Senate Inquiry and the Greens will move for one.
“The Greens support expert calls for a moratorium on land clearing and new water licenses until we can restore trust to the system. Minister Plibersek should also use the Water Trigger power to stop more destruction of aquifers and water in the NT.
“This is looking like Murray Darling 2.0. The same thing that destroyed the Murray Darling and saw it mismanaged for years. Water is a precious resource and at this early stage there is still time to ensure it’s properly managed and regulated.”
