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Ingram Supports Local Farmers In Rates Subsidy ExtensionThe Independent Member for Gippsland East, Craig Ingram, has called on the Minister for Agriculture, Joe Helper, to extend the Municipal Rate Subsidy (MRS) for farmers in exceptional circumstances By Craig Ingram - 23rd September 2009 - Back to News "The MRS offers eligible farmers who receive the Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment (ECRP) from Centrelink up to 50 per cent subsidy on their municipal rates, which would be of great assistance as they struggle through drought and economic impacts," Mr Ingram said.
"The Victorian Government will make a decision next month if the MRS will be extended and I believe this is crucial in supporting our primary producers.
"Following petitioning last year through my office and other sources, the Federal Government accepted the National Rural Advisory Council (NRAC) advice to extend drought assistance to all Victorian Exceptional Circumstances (EC) Declared areas, including East Gippsland, until April 30, 2010.
"It is imperative that eligible farmers receive support from both State and Federal governments to assist them through tough times.
"I am advised that if the Victorian Government decides in October 2009 to provide the Municipal Rate Subsidy (MRS), farmers who have already paid their first quarterly rate instalment for 2009/10 will still be able to claim the full subsidy entitlement.
"I have put the case forward to the Minister for Agriculture on behalf of the farmers in my electorate and await the government’s decision next month," Mr Ingram concluded.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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