Federal Government monitoring flood situation: Saffin
The Federal Member for Page, Janelle Saffin, says the Federal Government is monitoring the flood situation in the Northern Rivers region and is in contact with the NSW Government about the impact of the flood on local communities.
Ms Saffin was at the SES Headquarters in Goonellabah today when Premier Morris Iemma announced an extension of the Natural Disaster declaration to cover Lismore and Richmond Valley local government areas.
“SES Deputy Regional Controller Geoff Spash today invited me to join one of the SES helicopters surveying the flood zones around Coraki, Woodburn, Bungawalbyn, Lismore and Casino areas,” Ms Saffin said.
“Having seen first hand the extent of the flooding, it’s clear that this is indeed a natural disaster area.
“The SES is doing a fantastic job of co-ordinating rescue efforts, and organising drops of food and medical supplies to residents cut off by the floodwaters.
“I will continue liaising with the SES and local governments to stay informed about the situation across the Page electorate.”
Natural disaster assistance is being provided by the State Government, but Ms Saffin says the Federal Government will maintain contact with the State Government to ensure that if further assistance is required, it can be delivered in a timely fashion.
