The Wire

While the second stage of tough water restrictions have begun in Sydney, the issue of water rights – how much, for whom, and for how long – is in the spotlight again. As much of NSW lies parched in the grip of a record drought, the government is considering controversial changes to it’s water management laws that – if passed – will allow it to give farmers and irrigators perpetual rights to water. But while many farmers have praised the decision fo rthe security it gives, environmental groups claim it will make things that much worse for our already suffering wetlands. Christine Baker spoke to Native Title Claimant for North Western NSW, and Greens candidate for the seat of Gwyder, Michael Anderson; Coordinator for Macquarie Marshes Management Committe, Sue Jones; and Principal Solicitor of the Environmental Defenders Office, Ilona Miller.