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.jpg) Despite recent good rains, water allocations for irrigators, vignerons and farmers have not increased greatly. Prior to the 20 March 2010 State election the Rann Labor Government claimed there was enough water to provide for a 35 per cent season opening allocation for River Murray irrigators, however on 1 July 2010, announced that irrigators will only be allowed a 21 per cent opening irrigation allocation. The Minister for the River Murray finally announced that irrigators allocations would be increased to the promised 35 per cent on 2 August - nearly five months after the commitment was given! However, the Minister on the 16 August 2010, said allocations had risen to only 34 per cent, still short of the promised 35 per cent.
The water shortages South Australia has experienced continues to cause great problems for all those who rely upon the availability of water – farmers, irrigators, vignerons and small businesses - particularly boating, tourism and hospitality businesses. The livelihoods of many are at stake and in some cases, have already been completely destroyed.
Ivan is acutely aware of how desperate the situation is and has given many speeches in Parliament regarding the plight of those affected by the drought and the need for ongoing Governmental support for those in primary production to ensure our food security for the future.
Ivan has urged the Government to implore their interstate counterparts to give South Australia a better deal with regard to water; fast track the desalination plant; introduce more stormwater recycling schemes and to inject more funds into support services for those being affected.
Adelaide must have an alternative water supply to reduce its reliance on the River Murray. Much more water needs to be left in the Murray for the health of the River and for the people who rely on it – especially those in riverside communities and country areas who have no choice.
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