The scrutiny continues to pile up on Peter Garrett over the foil insulation debacle, with the Environment Minister admitting in Parliament yesterday he knew about the risks in his roof insulation program as far back as February last year.

Now Garrett and Rudd are facing a growing chorus of voices calling for him to be fired or step down.

Here’s how the pundits saw it today:

The Australian

Christian Kerr: Blow-in forgets Labor gospel

Workplaces have changed over the years, but construction sites, large and small, are still tough and harsh and risk-filled places to be.
Garrett doesn’t understand these nuances.

The Age

Editorial: Garrett racks up strikes against him

… all these administrative woes create the impression of a minister struggling with his responsibilities. Mr Garrett cannot afford any more accidents.

Michelle Grattan: Minister safe, just for now

The Prime Minister knows the political drill: to sacrifice a minister for bad administration does little but make your opponents more blood thirsty.

National Times

Tony Wright, The Goanna: Not slaughter, but a fight for political life

It may have been over the top to suggest that Garrett should be on trial for manslaughter, but there was no doubt he was on trial for his political life.

He survived.

Herald Sun

Phillip Hudson: No safety net for Peter Garrett in election year

In an election year, PMs only stand by an embattled minister for so long.

Garrett followed expert advice and demanded high standards, but this should have been settled before the scheme started.

Ballarat Courier

Editorial, Warning bells should have rung for Garrett on insulation scheme

Mr Garrett is not a career politician, and this sometimes shows through his handling of his portfolio.

Elsewhere…

Grog, Grogs Gamut blog, On the QT: Please Sir, May I have Another?

Greg Hunt asked Garrett six questions, and in not one of them did Garrett look shifty or struggling for facts. He was able to repeat parts of his ministerial statement and looked well at ease doing so. By the third question the heat of the attack had gone out, and it was clear Garrett was safe.