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Ministers To Visit Latrobe Valley  Road Closure State Government Ministers will be visiting the Latrobe Valley next week to discuss the Princes Freeway closure along with challenges confronting the energy industry. By Russell Northe - 7th April 2011 - Back to News Nationals Member for Morwell Russell Northe said the Minister for Energy and Resources Michael O’Brien would be visiting Latrobe Valley next Tuesday whilst Minister for Roads Terry Mulder would be in the region next Thursday.
Minister Mulder confirmed yesterday in Parliament his visit to the region to discuss strategies for coping with expected large volumes of traffic over the Easter period with the relevant authorities, said Mr Northe.
"It would be fair to say that over the Labor Day long weekend some congestion issues were experienced in Morwell," Mr Northe said.
"It is imperative over the Easter period that appropriate communications are conveyed to all Victorians travelling through our region, and the Minister has expressed his desire to come down to Latrobe Valley to discuss the strategic plan firsthand.
"The Coalition Government desires to make certain that a strong message is communicated that Gippsland is open for business over the Easter period whilst at the same time ensuring traffic plans and initiatives are clearly articulated to the travelling public.
"Of course the Minister is very much across the issues that we are facing, and has a good understanding of the current situation. We are keeping him informed on a very regular basis, as we are informing all Ministers who have responsibility with respect to this particular matter.
"Discussions had on a local level with Emergency Management teams and various organisations have been relayed to the Ministers to ensure they are continually aware of the issues, suggestions and plans.
Mr Northe said Minister for Energy and Resources Michael O’Brien will also visit the region next week to discuss the freeway closure, along with current issues faced in the power industry.
"Minister O’Brien will be involved in discussions with local power generators on current and future challenges including the impacts of a proposed carbon tax by the Federal Government.
"It will be terrific to have both Ministers visiting our region next and as is the case with all Ministers in the Coalition Government they are absolute in their support of the Latrobe Valley community."
Media: Russell Northe 0408 22 55 23 / Julia Auciello 5133 9088
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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