Brett Mason (Queensland, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Universities and Research) Share this | Hansard source

The coalition supports the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Amendment (Bioregional Plans) Bill 2011 introduced by Senator Colbeck, our spokesman on agriculture and fisheries. In the very short time remaining for debate on this bill now, can I congratulate Senator Colbeck for the great work he has done in initiating this bill. He has spoken to all the stakeholders, which is in contrast of course to the government approach. I congratulate Senator Colbeck for travelling hither and thither throughout Australia and addressing this issue, which is critical for our marine resources. He has done a job that the government should perhaps have spent more time on, so I want to congratulate him on behalf of the coalition.