FED: National parks could be making fires more deadly: Boswell

AAP General News (Australia)
02-10-2009
FED: National parks could be making fires more deadly: Boswell

Debate's already started about the causes of Victoria's savage bushfires .. as authorities
warn the death toll of 173 will rise as the grim search of fire-ravaged areas continues.

Bushfire researchers say fuel reduction policies need to be examined by a royal commission
set up by the Victorian government.

Nationals senator RON BOSWELL says the practice of locking-up areas as national parks
must be looked at .. as fire thrives among such a build-up of fuel.

Greens leader BOB BROWN says climate change is part of the problem as Australia's getting
hotter and drier.

His party's climate change spokeswoman CHRISTINE MILNE says national parks and forests
are crucial to help combat climate change because they act as carbon stores .. but outspoken
Liberal backbencher WILSON TUCKEY says state governments should consider removing some
trees to reduce the fire risk.

Meanwhile Liberal MP JAMIE BRIGGS says the royal commission needs to took at early-warning
systems and the construction of purpose-built housing .. including special bunkers ..

in high risk bushfire zones.

AAP RTV mb/jcd/af

KEYWORD: BUSHFIRES VIC PARKS (CANBERRA)

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