Scientists condemn Traveston Dam

The decision by Ronan Lee to become Queensland's first Greens MP is a clear indication of the rise of the Greens as Queensland's and Australia's political alternative, Greens Leader Senator Bob Brown said in Brisbane today.

"Ronan's energetic Greens voice in the State Parliament will refocus the debate on issues like climate change, public transport and the Traveston Dam, to forge better outcomes."

"With both the old parties mired in the past, the Greens are at the cutting edge of world's best practice for baseload solar power, energy efficiency, and ensuring cities have every house equipped with water tanks, solar hot-water services and lucrative feed-in tariff laws as well as fast, cheap, efficient public transport."

"On Labor criticism that Ronan Lee hasn't called a by-election, the obvious question is why Premier Beattie did not call a state election when he stood down as leader? In both cases, it will be up to voters at the next state election. I reckon the people of Indooroopilly will like their MP putting loyalty to electoral outcome over loyalty to a non-performing Labor party."

Senator Brown released a study by Griffith University's Professor Angela Arthington, saying the Traveston Dam will severely impact on the Australian lungfish. Professor Arthington has sent her report to Premier Bligh and Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett, saying the dam on the Mary River "should not be permitted to proceed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act."

Further information: Russell Kelly 0438 376 082