Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack has fired up on ABC radio, saying that he finds it “galling” that people are linking bushfires to climate change.
“What people need now is a little bit of sympathy, understanding and real assistance. They need help, they need shelter,” Mr McCormack said.
It's been a weekend of destruction and devastation across NSW in the midst of a bushfire emergency but this morning we're being warned the worst is yet to come. #9News pic.twitter.com/uiWr7IYpKR
— Nine News Sydney (@9NewsSyd) 10 November 2019
“They don't need the ravings of some pure, enlightened and woke capital city greenies at this time when they're trying to save their homes. It is disgusting and I will call it out every time.
“It's not about cheap political point-scoring. Not the ravings of some greenie in his apartment in Melbourne, crying about how bad coal is.”
His response was pointed at Greens MP Adam Bandt, who has arguably been the most vocal person raising climate change policy in recent days.
I’m deeply saddened by the loss of life. Hearts go out to all affected & to brave firefighters.
But words & concern are not enough.
The PM does not have the climate emergency under control.
Unless we lead a global effort to quit coal & cut pollution, more lives will be lost.
— Adam Bandt (@AdamBandt) 9 November 2019
McCormack was ropable as he slammed Bandt directly, saying his comments were “stupid and callous”.
“This is despicable,” he said.
“People who are at risk of losing their homes or people have already lost their homes or pets, indeed lost family members, don’t need to hear politicians coming out and starting to play the same game.
“The fact is, the government does take climate change very seriously. The fact is we are meeting our international obligations and will continue to do so.
“Australians get through these because we are a resilient bunch. We stick together, we band together, we make sure that we help those in need and comments coming from a little Melbourne apartment from a little individual with a little mind should not be accepted or tolerated at this time.”