Saffin to press for flood assistance
The Federal Member for Page, Janelle Saffin, says she will press for additional financial assistance for the region to help with flood recovery.
On Monday Ms Saffin is meeting representatives of primary industry and tourism groups to discuss the impact of the floods and consider their submissions for relief measures.
Ms Saffin has received submissions from the dairy industry, canegrowers and commercial fishermen and will also be hearing from the beef industry and the seed growers who are reporting devastation to soy bean crops.
“While the Natural Disaster Relief measures are available to local primary industries, there may be a case for special consideration for grants for farmers who are particularly hard hit,” Ms Saffin said.
“I’m also aware that the closure of the Wilson and Richmond Rivers has hit 12 local commercial fishermen hard. I have contacted the State Primary Industries Minister, Ian Macdonald, supporting the fishermen’s submission that they be paid to survey and monitor the rivers while they are closed.”
Following the morning meeting with primary industry groups, Ms Saffin will meet Russell Mills, the CEO of North Coast Tourism, to discuss the impact on the local tourism industry.
“I have visited many flood-affected communities and spoken to farmers, business people and householders about the devastating affects of this disaster, the third natural disaster in as many months,” she said.
“While there are good relief measures available, I will advocate additional assistance to help people in Page.”
