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Ingram welcomes drought declaration in local shiresIndependent Member for Gippsland East, Craig Ingram, has confirmed that farmers in the East Gippsland and Wellington Shires are eligible for drought assistance. By East Gippsland - 9th May 2003 - Back to News "Following a review by the State Government of drought-affected municipalities I have been informed today by the Minister for Agriculture, Bob Cameron, that East Gippsland and Wellington Shires have now been declared," Mr Ingram said.
"Eligible farmers will be able to access immediate assistance of $20,000 from the state government as well as other assistance measures from the Federal Government once applications for Federal Exceptional Circumstances are accepted.
"Applications for assistance have been extended until June 20."
Speaking today from the East Gippsland Field Days, Mr Ingram stated the news was being welcomed by district farmers.
"I am very pleased that the government is finally recognising the hardship being experienced by our local farmers and although it is long overdue, I share with them in welcoming the news, Mr Ingram concluded.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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