Senate asks Garrett to explain Traveston fish protection measures
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Mr Garrett is expected to respond to the Senate motion in a few weeks. (AAP: Dean Lewins, file photo)
The Senate has asked Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett to explain how a vulnerable habitat will be protected if he approves a dam on Queensland's Mary River near Gympie.
The Queensland Government is awaiting federal approval to build the Traveston dam on the river, which is home to the endangered Mary River cod, lungfish and Mary River turtle.
Yesterday the Senate passed a motion by Greens leader Bob Brown which requires Mr Garrett to explain how a vulnerable breeding ground and nursery will be protected if the dam goes ahead.
Senator Brown says the Mary River is recognised by experts as the last remaining spawning ground for the three endangered species.
"I believe there is no way, as the nation's most powerful environmentalist, that Peter Garrett can give the go ahead to this destructive dam," he said.
"It would be one of the most perverse decisions by an Environment Minister in Australian history."
Senator Brown says the Senate is ensuring the Government remains transparent on important environmental issues.
Mr Garrett is expected to respond to the Senate motion in a few weeks.
