Labor Leader Bryan Green today called on the Federal and State Liberal Governments to honour commitments to continue the roll out of irrigation projects in Tasmania.
In Scottsdale as part of Labor’s tour around the State, Mr Green said work on major water schemes could be stalled because of funding delays.
“It is great to see the Upper Ringarooma scheme in the North-East nearing completion but now is not the time for Governments either State or Federal to sit on their hands,” Mr Green said.
“Federal funding for the $46 million Scottsdale irrigation scheme is yet to be delivered although the business case has been approved and water sales are progressing.
“The Southern Highlands project is also ready to go but the Federal Government is stalling on providing the funding it promised at the last election.
“There is unprecedented support from farmers in the Southern Highlands for the project with water sales almost sold out.
“The Federal Liberals have been missing in action when it comes to supporting the roll out of irrigation schemes in Tasmanian which began under previous Labor Governments.
“The Tasmanian Liberals have been happy to ride on the coat tails of the work Labor has done to develop irrigation projects but they’ve done little themselves to ensure more schemes are built.
“The Scottsdale scheme will be the fourth and by far the biggest irrigation project constructed in the North-East under the water development program.
“Reliable irrigation is the key to making the most of the rich diversity of farming in the North East and around Tasmania and will underpin the growth in our agricultural sector for decades to come.
“Water surety gives farmers the confidence to plan and invest for the future.”
Bryan Green MP Labor Leader
