Greens call for Coffer Dam in Homebush Bay to Stop Spread of Dioxins - 3 May 2006

Greens MLC Ian Cohen today condemned Minister Macdonald’s announcement that he may allow recreational fishing in Sydney Harbour. Mr Cohen called on the Government to build a coffer dam in Homebush Bay and remediate the bed of the bay to stop the spread of dioxins any further.

“It is negligent of the Government to even consider allowing recreational fishing in Sydney Harbour in light of the alarming levels of dioxins found in seafood in the harbour. Many recreational fishermen, including those who are unemployed, rely on their catch as a main source of protein for their families. They could be putting themselves and their families at risk if the Government fails to protect them.” Mr Cohen said.

“Today in Question Time I called on the Government to direct the building of a coffer dam in Homebush Bay to contain the contaminated sediment where it is most concentrated prior to remediation. This would prevent the stirring up and the spread of dioxins further into Sydney Harbour.

“Remediation of the harbour must become a top priority for the Government. But this must not be done in a way that stirs up the contaminants further. Building a coffer dam prior to remediation is a sensible solution that deserves serious investigation by the Government.”

“This Government has previously opted to leave the contaminated sediment in situ, but obviously this strategy has been a failure.” Mr Cohen said.


Further Information: Ian Cohen, 9230 2603 or 0409 989 466