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Ingram condemns government on Alpine grazing decision

The Independent Member for Gippsland East, Craig Ingram, has condemned the Bracks Government for its decision to totally remove cattle grazing in the Alpine National Park.

By Craig Ingram - 25th May 2005 - Back to News

"Yesterday’s announcement is very disappointing and is a strike to the heart of our alpine and rural heritage," Mr Ingram said.

"I have been campaigning strongly alongside the Mountain Cattlemen over the years to have grazing reinstated after the Caledonia and 2002/3 fires and to ensure that the licences would be renewed, but like the Kennett Government, this government seems to be a closed shop to concerns from the country.

"Steve Bracks was elected in 1999 with the support of country voters and the decision on Alpine grazing shows quickly they have abandoned that support.

"The government seems to think that the history and heritage of the cattlemen and their families can be brought for a few pieces of silver and that grazing licences will be moved to areas outside of the park.

"This shows a total lack of understanding on this issue, which they are attempting to smooth over with a divisive $250,000 propaganda campaign that commenced the day after the announcement.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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