NT Government falling behind on key election promises.

Only 5 environmental promises implemented after a year and a half back in office!

The Environment Centre of the Northern Territory (ECNT) says the Martin government must prioritise the environment much more highly in 2007 if it is to fulfill the promises it made in the lead up to the 2005 NT election.

“Our analysis (attached) shows that only 5 of the 25 environment promises made by the government have actually been implemented. Another 9 are partially done. Eleven (45%) have not even been commenced, or have gone off the rails.

“While we welcome the five that have been fulfilled, it is very worrying that many of the most important promises appear far from fulfillment.

“For example, the establishment of an independent statutory EPA is taking an unacceptably long time and it could be at least another year before this is accomplished.

“Similarly the passage of the promised new Living Rivers legislation is taking a very long time for a government with such a commanding majority in parliament.

“One of the biggest stumbling blocks to the implementation of promises is the chronic lack of funding for the environment from successive governments.

“With the NT Budget allocating a pathetic ~3.5% of expenditure to the environment each year, it is no wonder key election promises aren’t fulfilled and our environment continues to deteriorate.

“2007 is widely seen as a crunch year environmentally and the NT government must take a much more pro-active and ‘fair dinkum’ role in addressing major issues such as rising greenhouse gas emissions; protection of our river catchments and harbours; declaration and control of weeds; upgrading water management; greatly improving urban and industrial planning, and addressing biodiversity crises across much of the NT.

“It is absolutely imperative in 2007 that the NT government makes a quantum leap in its commitment to looking after the Territory environment – and that starts with the May budget allocating substantially more to key environmental promises, opportunities and issues.”

Further comment: Peter Robertson 8981 1984 / 0409 089 020