Greens see red over algae bloom - 4 October 2006

NSW Greens Upper House MP Ian Cohen has accused the NSW Government of culpability over a noxious red algae outbreak that threatens to close some of Sydney’s iconic northern beaches.

“It is believed to have originated in the Hawkesbury, a river where the Government has refused to do anything about the problem of effluent flowing from unregulated septic tanks,” he said.

“I believe their continued insistence in pumping sewage into the ocean via ocean outfalls is a further contributing factor.

“Given that the underlying cause was unusually warm ocean temperatures over winter, this is yet another reminder to the NSW Government that they also must take action on the issue of climate change.

“I understand that not every problem in our natural environment can be sheeted home to the NSW Government, but rigorous investigation is required when the likely causes are a result of their poor decision making.

“It is a major failure of government that we are having a red algae bloom this early in the season.” he said.



Further Information: Michael Hidden 9230 3305 or 0431 320 085