The Nationals’ Senator for Queensland, Senator Barnaby Joyce, has welcomed Deputy Anna Bligh’s reconsideration of the decision regarding the proposed Traveston Dam.

"Rather than play politics I welcome the acknowledgement that a decision based on logic, research and consultation is a far better approach for an effective long term solution to the ever growing SE Queensland water problem.

“Ms Bligh’s announcement that the Environmental Impact Study Terms of Reference will encompass options of 'building no dam, building other dams, recycling and desalination, I hope, with many tax payers and people from the Mary River, leads to a decision that will stand the test of closer investigation and will provide a real solution rather than just a decision.

“The Senate Inquiry into the Traveston Dam proposal was essential in exposing a realm of major implications in regards the proposed site. People work too hard to pay for their taxes to accept a decision which is not a solution. The opportunity cost in health, roads and education and an appropriate water solution is far too great for this current decision to proceed in the current light of greater knowledge.

"All people want an effective solution for SE Queensland. No one wants Brisbane to run out of water, the effects of which would be a complete and utter social and economic disaster for the commercial and population hub of our state. As this decision is so serious, it has to be dealt with transparency and respect.

"No one is the font of all information, everyone is affected. All Queenslanders will have contempt for decisions which are made in haste but we repent at our displeasure in the midst of a social and economic disaster.

"Unfortunately the fundamental dynamic is this: unless the good Lord brings rain, the end of 2008 will have huge ramifications that will permeate all the way through our economy as a whole. So pray for rain but plan for drought and prepare for what, unfortunately, seems the inevitable. We have to get water into the Brisbane system by next year from a new source that we can reticulate around Brisbane so that we can eat, clean and have a job." Senator Joyce said.