Rudd clueless on Australia’s food security

The Rudd Government has no idea what impact its controversial water buyback plans will have on Australia’s future food security. That was the conclusion reached by NSW Nationals Senator Fiona Nash after grilling public servants during Senate Estimates late on Tuesday night. “Given that the Government has already spent around $33 million, which will over the long term divert 24,000 megalitres a year from irrigated agriculture to environmental flow, it is vital that we know what impact this will have on Australia’s future ability to feed the nation,” Senator Nash said. “Food security is going to be a major challenge for both Australia and the world in the future, yet Senate Estimates proved the Rudd Government has no plan and no idea.” “This is just the beginning: the Rudd Government is embarking on a massive water buyback scheme. It is completely irresponsible to do this without properly investigating the impact on agricultural production.” Senator Nash said the Government should instead be focusing on water savings by fixing existing infrastructure and investing in smart irrigation technology now. “Once again the Rudd Government is putting the cart before the horse, or more to the point, making policy on the run instead of developing a good water plan for Australia’s future,” Senator Nash said.” “If Labor followed the lead of Nationals MPs like Kay Hull, Mark Coulton and John Cobb and listened to local concerns we would get a much better outcome.” “Instead Labor’s failure could have a disastrous impact well beyond our shores. If we can’t feed ourselves we certainly won’t be able to fulfil our international food aid responsibilities.

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