An interesting exchange (2)

Senate discussions on the Clarence River water diversion proposal:

"Senator O'Brien----I am interested because there is a growing body of scientific evidence which shows a strong link between river flows and fisheries productivity.

Senator Abetz----Of course there is; there is no doubt about that. I would have thought the prawn sector is one such fishery. Most of the breeding grounds are also within the three nautical mile state zone, and so that would be up for the state government planning authorities." [Standing Committee for Rural Regional Affairs and Transport, Estimates Committee, Australian Fisheries Management Authority discussion,24 May 2007,proof transcript,p.43]

"Senator STEPHENS----I look forward to seeing what happens next, given the support by the Prime Minister and the lack of support by the local members." [Standing Committee on Environment, Communications, Information Technology and the Arts,Estimates Committee,National Water Commission discussion,22 May 2007,proof transcript,p.98]