Shadow Minister Visits
Echo 2 May 02
With the NSW Cabinet visiting Evans Head this week, it was anticipated that
many would take the opportunity to highlight concerns of the region, especially
the implications of the proposed changes to the Richmond Regional Vegetation
Management Plan.
Shadow Minister Visits
On Tuesday Shadow Minister for Roads and Tourism, Mr John Turner undertook an
inspection of the Woodenbong-Legume Road, discussions with representatives of
Lismore City Council regarding the Bruxner Highway and the pool redevelopment,
and a visit to the Lismore Tourist Information Centre.
Today, The Hon George Souris, Leader of the National Party, Shadow Treasurer,
Shadow Minister for Gaming and Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs and Services is
in the Lismore electorate. During today's visit, Mr Souris will gather with
various business people for lunch, have discussions with members of the Clubs
Association and then met with representatives of the Australian Hoteliers
Association. Mr George Souris has called on the NSW Government to immediately
restore equity of access to services and opportunities in country areas. He says
rural and regional areas of the state are disadvantaged in everything from
health, education and transport to infrastructure and services. Mr Souris says a
central platform of a Coalition government would be regionally focused
decentralisation of government.
With the NSW election imminent next year it is extremely valuable for Shadow
Ministers to become familiar and aware of the issues of the Lismore electorate.
Minister Iemma was in the electorate this week to present a cheque for $80,000
to the North Coast Academy of Sport, for the continued operation and success
that this sporting facility has enjoyed fostering over many years. This funding
is very much appreciated, particularly due to the prominent and talented
sportspeople who have benefited and been fostered through the programs run by
the Academy.
Pollies for Small Business Day
Yesterday I enjoyed the opportunity to undertake `work experience' at Woody's
Sports Shoes, Sista's Caf‚ and Recycled Sports. Tomorrow I will be in Casino at
Mitre 10 and in Kyogle at the IGA Supermarket. This opportunity will renew past
experience, enable my interaction with local small businesses, but also meet
many people who will not be expecting to be greeted or have their lunch served
by their local member.
Richmond Regional Vegetation Management Plan
Last week, I attended the Casino and Bonalbo meetings regarding the above Plan,
where over 300 landholders (with many not being officially invited), attended as
the main stakeholders. The presence at these meetings reflected the anger and
concern at the impact this plan will have on their lives. The Department of Land
& Water Conservation stated that `the purpose of the regulations is to provide
for reporting and compliance', I believe this could be done in a much more
cost-effective manner that is stakeholder friendly. It was very evident that the
three Committee representatives who are dependent (like the many farmers in
attendance) upon the land for their major income have been consistently outvoted
with any proposals to the Committee (so much for community consultation). I will
now take forward their concerns direct to the Minister.
Public Liability
A Public Liability Insurance Information Service has been set up to help
businesses and community organisations trying to obtain cover. An independent
body, Insurance Enquiries and Complaints Limited, is available to assist people
with their enquiries about public liability. The toll free telephone number for
the Insurance Enquiries & Complaints Limited is:
1300 363 683. Alternatively, the web site is: www.iecltd.com.au
