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Environment groups have praised the multi-agency response to the Moreton Island oil spill and called for increased funding to the EPA and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service for park protection and emergency response capacity.
"This terrible incident is a stark reminder that environment authorities must be prepared at all times and retain the capacity to respond to emergencies," said Queensland Conservation spokesperson Simon Baltais.
"The Queensland Parks and wildlife Service and its staff deserve our thanks for their rapid response to this oil spill," Baltais continued.
Environment groups have registered their concern about the LNP's proposal for a 3% productivity dividend on all government departments which will reduce the budget of agencies like the EPA. The LNP have also proposed to spend a further $3 million to review the green zones in Moreton Bay, despite scientific studies which show that they are essential to the protection of the bay.
"Our concern is that already stretched resources in park management will be further undermined by these policies, that essential protection of the Bay overturned and the ability to properly respond to emergencies like the Moreton oil spill made impossible," said Mr Baltais.
"Inadequate and slow responses often lead to dramatically worse outcomes for the environment and wildlife. We call on both major parties to commit extra funding to the EPA for park expansion, improved management and to maintain emergency response capacities," Mr Baltais concluded.
For More Information:
Simon Baltais (QCC) 0412 075 334
Craig Bohm (AMCS) 0427 133 481
Toby Hutcheon (QCC) 0419 664 503
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