Australian marine reserves safe from spill: Garrett

ABC News 8 Sep 09;

The Federal Government says any possible impact from an oil leak in the Timor Sea, off Western Australia's north-west coast, will be addressed.

Crude oil and gas have been flowing into the sea from the West Atlas rig for more than a fortnight. A rig, which has been sent from Singapore to drill a relief well to stop the flow of oil, is expected to arrive on Thursday. The Government expects it will take about a month to stop the leak.

The Federal Environment Minister, Peter Garrett, says nearby marine reserves are not under immediate threat, but possible impacts on wildlife and the environment are being addressed.

"My department continues to work closely with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority and relevant commonwealth and state agencies to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to respond to any impact on wildlife and the broader environment," he said.