For Immediate Release 16 March 2009
A Moreton Bay Commissioner needed to streamline disaster response
Environment groups today called for the creation of a Moreton Bay
Commissioner to oversee and coordinate government policy on Moreton Bay.
“The recent oil and chemical spill has highlighted the need to move forward
with a current idea among stakeholders to appoint a Commissioner for
Moreton Bay, “said Queensland Conservation spokesperson Simon Baltais.
“A Moreton Bay Commissioner would greatly enhance the preparedness of
all levels of government and streamline their responses to natural and man-
made disasters on Moreton Bay and its surrounds,” said Craig Bohm,
National Campaigns Director for the Australian Marine Conservation Society.
The idea of a Moreton Bay Commissioner has been a point of discussion
between various Moreton Bay stakeholders and the state government for
about six months.
“Outside of disaster response a Moreton Bay Commissioner would oversee
long-term conservation work and be responsible for driving the continual
improvement of policies and services relating to Moreton Bay,” said Mr
Baltais.
“This is an idea with great merit who’s time has come”, said Mr Bohm.
“With the current focus on Moreton Bay and the long-term impact of the MV
Pacific Adventurer disaster a properly empowered Moreton Bay
Commissioner could have a tremendous positive impact on Moreton Bay,”
concluded Mr Bohm.
For More Information:
Simon Baltais (QCC) 0412 075 334
Craig Bohm (AMCS) 0427 133 481
NEWS 
