Does no-one in the entire Abbott Cabinet have a grasp on reality?

Below are the opening paragraphs of a joint media release by The Hon. Greg Hunt MP, Federal Minister for the Environment and The Hon. Andrew Powell MP, Queensland Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection on 1 February 2014 – just days after Australia learned that approval had been given to dump dredge spoil from the Abbot Point coal terminal expansion into the Great Barrier Reef marine park area. I can only believe that Mr. Hunt has parted company with reality.

The Australian and Queensland Governments have today released the 2014 State Party Report on the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area which highlights the significant progress being made to improve the management, health and protection of this amazing iconic area.

This progress report has been delivered to the World Heritage Committee meeting currently underway and demonstrates unequivocally the Australian and Queensland Governments’ commitment to better managing and protecting this natural wonder.

Federal Environment Minister Greg Hunt said getting the management and protection of the reef right is a top priority for the Abbott government.

“The Government is implementing important initiatives such as our Reef 2050 Plan, Reef Trust, and funding vital projects such as Crown of Thorns Starfish eradication and the Gladstone Healthy Harbours Partnership”, he said.

“The federal Government is working closely with Queensland to help protect this Australian icon for future generations.

“The report shows that the Great Barrier Reef’s outstanding universal value and integrity remain largely intact and Australia has made substantial progress and commitment in responding to the requests of the World Heritage Committee.

“In close cooperation with the Queensland Government, we are boosting the conservation of the Reef through a range of approaches both on land and in the marine environment.

“This includes carrying out the comprehensive strategic assessment of the Great Barrier Reef, an ongoing commitment to the Reef Water Quality Protection Plan and continuing strict protection under national environment laws.....

* Photograph of The Great Barrier Reef found at Australian Geographic