News - Bega Merimbula Eden Bermagui Tathra Pambula

The Member for Bega Andrew Constance is calling on the Rees Labor Government to halt its plan to manage Far South Coasts National Parks from Coffs Harbour and to not axe fire management officers positions who work on fire fighting and risk management strategies.

"Our region is the amongst the highest risk fire zones in the state and the last thing we need at the moment is management based in Coffs Harbour," Mr Constance said.

"With temperatures soaring and dangerous fires burning across the state, Nathan Rees and his ministers should not be axing  essential fire-fighting positions," he said.

“Nathan Rees owes a duty of care to thousands of families living near National Parks who are facing major bushfire threats.

These people will be horrified by the Government’s actions, which can only increase the threat to life and property,” he said.

"Coffs Harbour based management will be clueless to the challenges facing Far South Coast communities and the under resourced National Parks system," he said.

"Everything from feral animals to fire mitigation will not receive the attention it deserves," Mr Constance said.

"Labor’s claims that job cuts are not frontline positions is more of the same spin and excuses we have come to expect from the incompetent Rees Government.

“In fact these are vital frontline jobs, providing leadership, experience and hands on firefighting service during times of crisis.

“Nathan Rees must review these farcical and irresponsible plans and at the same time tell the community how many positions will go in the region," he said.