Noticing a repeat of the usual pattern of “the Environment Ministry ... and the rest”, the DM argued that is was imperative that the government not stall, nor be seen to be stalling. Wastewater treatment in Victoria is a matter of principle not to discharge into the ocean that which we don’t understand, not a matter of more studies. We have enough science to warrant moving forward, and we cannot continue as we are. Also, we cannot simply rely on unrealistic dreams of technological miracles as an excuse for inaction now.

 

Additionally, we must not impair the Province’s legal and political / policy position.  We don’t want to be pushed into court — once there, we lose our ability to manage the issue.

 

We do, however, have to pursue the carbon management and GHG emissions issues adequately and comprehensively.