Water and waste obligations

THERE are dedicated groups within our region who are tackling our current position with water supply and indeed waste disposal.

Regional or nationwide history may not offer the answers but does highlight the mistakes governments of all levels and persuasions inexplicably continue to make.

I believe our elected representatives should be reminded of their obligations. Local and state governments hold responsibility for approving large and small developments either urban or industrial.

Growth in these areas equals, it is fair to say, increases in waste growth and water usage. With information by way of census and a multitude of private growth predictions available, and having accuracy, particularly in the 21st century it is indeed incumbent on these bodies to guarantee that both of these critical infrastructures are capable of meeting these future demands.

These levels of government are well aware of the length of time to establish both water and waste management projects. Fifteen to 20 years is required to establish both.

Why then do they persist in approving developments which will quite obviously create pressure in these critical areas and ignore the long lead time required to compensate for the growth which can, if ignored, have devastating effects on the population?

I believe the reason lies in the electoral time frame and self preservation which should be recognised as the worst type of political incompetence and we should not be afraid to confront them with their incompetence.

The political “blame game” just doesn’t wash in the 21st century.

If they are unable to get the basics for “life” right why should we applaud their headline grabbing projects? JOHN JAUNCEY,

Deeragun.