It is very disheartening to read of the effects of climate change on the tiny Pacific nation of Tuvalu (“ Difficult choices as the ocean swallows Tuvalu ”, May 19). But the measures being taken by our government to address this do not tackle the root cause of the problem. The nation is literally drowning as rising sea levels threaten to cover most of its land within 50 years unless drastic action is taken.
Then why is Labor promoting gas as a primary energy source for decades to come in its Future Gas Strategy? The extraction and use of gas is a major contributor to global warming. Surely, a show of genuine friendship would be to phase out this heavy pollutant for export and domestic use, keeping only a small amount as a reservation fuel. Anne O’Hara, Wanniassa ACT One solution would be for France, Australia or New Zealand to offer countries such as Tuvalu territory status.
They lose political independence but remain self-governing locally and get to be represented in Paris, Canberra, or Wellington. Their citizens gain access to the larger nation which would support their efforts to manage rising sea levels and relocate people as needed. David Neilson, Araluen (NT) The mother of a victim of the Bondi Junction attack (“Mum’s plea after Bondi Junction tragedy”, May 19) has highlighted the fact that there are an estimated 58,000 people with severe mental health needs in our society.
Politicians should be taking action to remedy this shocking situation instead of argu.