"We're dealing with a World Heritage area, the most important World Heritage area on the planet... Our own legislative mandate says 'the long-term protection and conservation of the values', and we're not doing that." - former director, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
In January 2014 the body tasked with protecting the Great Barrier Reef approved a plan to dump three million cubic metres of dredge spoil inside the marine park to expand the Abbot Point coal port.
The decision by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has shocked and angered the scientific community. Internal documents obtained by Four Corners reveal deep divisions between the scientists and bureaucrats behind the decision. They show that the dumping was approved despite previous recommendations from senior scientists that it be rejected.
"That decision has to be a political decision. It is not supported by science at all, and I was absolutely flabbergasted when I heard." - Dr Charlie Veron, marine scientist
But the Chairman of the Marine Park Authority denies the decision was political and the Federal Environment Minister insists it will take place under the strictest environmental conditions.
Greg Hunt stated he prevented for out 5 planned dredgings and that one is better than 5. Coral are part plant and part animal, if there are particles in the water they cannot photosynthesize and if their is clogged they cannot eat food and they die.
The dumping approval also comes as scientists are confirming a link between port dredging and deadly coral disease for the first time.
http://www.abc.net.au/4corners/stories/2014/08/18/4067593.htm View the story aired on Australian TV 18th August 2014
