30 January 2009 in Media
State Government should reassure Lakes communities
Today I have written to the Minister for Health, the Hon. John Hill, seeking reassurance for the people of the Lower Lakes that the acid sulphate dust storms whipped up during high winds are not a health risk to the community.
According to scientists advising the State Government the soils exposed by the low level of water in the Lower Lakes are turning acid. These soils are being picked up by high winds and dust storms and blown into nearby houses.
This has caused concerns within the community regarding the effect of the acid sulphate soils are having on their health.
The area is facing prolonged hot and windy weather, I am calling on the State Health Minister to reassure the Lower Lakes community that the acid sulphate soil dust storms are not a health risk.
This issue highlights a lack action by both the State and Federal Governments. It is time that the governments made decisions regarding the future of the Lakes.
Mike Rann enjoyed the publicity of Lance Armstrong, maybe now he can get back and focus on making a decision on the future of the Lower Lakes.