Dr David Mitchell has released a discussion paper on the future of the use of water in the Murray Darling Basin, saying that the church is “concerned for the long term wellbeing of all life on earth”.
“Our aim is to provide a Christian perspective on these issues because they have deep moral and spiritual dimensions as well as material ones” Dr Mitchell said. “There are real issues of importance as the nation tries to balance the issues of human welfare in the present generation against the need to maintain the rivers and natural environment for future generations.”
“It is a real struggle, as scripture makes it clear that God has concern for both people and the wider creation. We have taken as our theme in this debate the word ‘flourish’ as God’s love is fulfilled in a flourishing world,” he said.
Recent proposals to limit the availability of water for agricultural production in order to to ensure its continuing sustainability of the basin have been strongly rejected by many of those whose livelihoods may be adversely affected by such developments.
Dr Mitchell acknowledged that the Anglican Church is an active member of these communities and is concerned for their welfare. “However there can be no doubt that practices that have the strong likelihood of irretrievable damage to natural ecosystems must be prevented and replaced by scientifically sound, environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.”
“The defence of those unable to speak for themselves, whatever form they take, has always been part of the church’s business and we stand with those who are now struggling with the consequences of past policies and practices”.
“How do we change our behaviour so that both the people and nature in the Basin will flourish? It is a very difficult question and we need to recognise that there are honest differences between people of good will on all sides of the debate.”
“We must make the changes needed to allow all in the Basin, ultimately, to flourish.” he said.
The statement can be downloaded from the Environment Working Group Web Site at www.environment.perth.anglican.org.
