2020-01-07
Australian Greens Senator for NSW and Animal Welfare Spokesperson, Dr Mehreen Faruqi, has called for State and Federal Governments to provide immediate support for wildlife carers and sanctuaries who are working day and night to save lives. An estimated half a billion animals have been killed in the fires in New South Wales alone so far.
Senator Faruqi said:
“Wildlife carers across the country are working round the clock to save our koalas, wombats, kangaroos and other animals so badly affected by bushfires. They are the unsung heroes, already doing it on the smell of an oily rag and now being pushed to breaking point by these fires.
“None of us can imagine an Australia without our iconic native species, but that is the future we are rapidly heading towards if Government’s don’t step up and support wildlife carers. It is expensive, time consuming and emotionally draining work and carers deserve our support.
“These fires have killed unprecedented numbers of animals, pushing some species to the brink. I’d like to see the Federal Government commit to an independent inquiry into how many animals have been killed and actions to restore the viability of native species in bushfire affected areas.
“It is wonderful to see so many people open their hearts and wallets to support wildlife but we need to see Government’s step up and do their part. Rebuilding native animal populations will be a long term process.
“We also need to realise that we can’t go back to business as usual. Land clearing and logging of native forests and threatens their very survival. Now is the time to make sure we take the steps necessary for the welfare and survival of animals at risk.
“The elephant in the room is the climate emergency we are in. What we are experiencing is only going to get worse if we don't take strong climate action now. The Prime Minister should save his thoughts and prayers and instead act on the climate crisis, including by phasing out coal and by stop trying to wreck global action on climate change,” she concluded.