Senator Jacqui Lambie has written (download below) to Prime Minister Tony Abbott and asked that he authorise, as soon as possible, the release of the promised $110M of federal funds, so that work can continue on Tranche 2 of Tasmanian Irrigation scheme.
“I’ve reminded the PM that these irrigation schemes are in regions of Australia which are experiencing some of the highest rates of unemployment and social disadvantage and therefore I would hope that he would understand the importance of ensuring that the promise of federal funding was kept. And that $110M of federal infrastructure funding was authorised and approved as soon as possible,” said Senator Lambie.
“I’ve also reminded the PM that I’ve been reliably informed that the Tasmanian State Government has already committed $30M, however if federal funding is not forthcoming in the very near future,
“I’ve also been reliably informed that Tasmanian Irrigation will continue to lose key staff.
“And should that unfortunate event occur, Tasmanian Irrigation would also lose the capability and capacity to develop further critically important schemes in Tasmania,” said Senator Lambie.
“Tasmania can’t afford to lose any more jobs or skilled workers, especially due to a slow response to previously agreed to funding by the Federal Government.
Communities of the Southern Highlands; Swan Valley; North Esk; Scottsdale, and Circular Head will greatly benefit from the investment in irrigation infrastructure by the federal and state governments, as well as the local farmers. But I’m sure that the PM will already know that fact.
“I look forward to a quick and positive reply to my request to the PM and expect all Tasmanian political reps, including the local Liberals to back my call.” said Senator Lambie.
Download:
Letter_to_Prime_Minister_re_Tasmanian_Irrigation_Schemes_-_12-12-14.pdf
Senator Jacqui Lambie
