TIME FOR MINISTER TO PUT SAFETY AHEAD OF POLITICS
09-December-2011
North East Victorian’s will be watching Federal Environment Minister, Tony Burke very closely as he considers the scientific case for re-instating cattle grazing in the High Country.
The Victorian Government this morning referred its alpine grazing research trial to the Commonwealth Government for consideration under federal legislation.
Member for Indi, Sophie Mirabella MP said that the Victorian Government was elected with a mandate to return cattlemen to the High Country and Minister Burke has a responsibility to put bushfire safety ahead of politics.
“The Victorian Government has taken a very prudent approach to this issue. They have commissioned a scientific trial and the results of that trial show that there is a very good case to return cattle to the High Country. The science shows that strategic cattle grazing can play a significant role in reducing the fuel load and reduce the severity of bushfires.
“Surely the safety of Victorians should be at the forefront of any decision that Minister Burke makes. Unfortunately, he has put politics ahead of policy so far and has pandered to The Greens. He has used bully tactics and political stunts to try and distort the debate, but the facts are now in.
“Locals will be watching Mr Burke very closely on this issue. People are fed up with The Greens calling the shots and effectively running the Government. This will be an opportunity for the Minister to show whether or not he can make a decision without being influenced by Bob Brown.