Nationals Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie has condemned the Rudd Government for voting against acknowledging three international environmental conservation treaties to which Australia is already a signatory.
The treaties all recognise sustainable use of the environment.
‘’The vote highlights the hypocrisy of Labor’s stated support for environmental conservation,’’ Senator McKenzie said.
The Senate was asked to support:
– The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, the Ramsar Convention, founded upon the “wise use” of wetlands.
-The Convention on Biological Diversity, advocating ‘sustainable use’ of the environment.
-The Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora treaty which recognises the value of wild fauna and flora from recreational and economic points of view.
‘‘It is absurd to vote against supporting treaties we as a nation have already signed,’’ Senator McKenzie said.
‘’The Rudd Government has allowed its slavish desire to play domestic politics rule over serious international environmental commitments,’’ she said.
‘’The Rudd Government must support international efforts to manage the environment through sustainable use practices, rather than playing politics with our environment and international standards.’’
Media contact: Kathleen Tonini mob: 0400530027
For copies of the motions email kathleen.tonini@aph.gov.au