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"Budget Underwhelming" Says Northe

Morwell electorate residents would be underwhelmed by the State Budget, local MP Russell Northe said today.

By Russell Northe - 7th May 2009 - Back to News

Mr Northe said Premier Brumby had relied heavily on Commonwealth funds to "save face" with voters and cover what would have been a $2 billion dollar deficit in the Victorian budget.

With the budget touted as ‘protecting and creating jobs for all Victorians’ Mr Northe said the Brumby government had missed an important opportunity to invest heavily in the Latrobe Valley in preparation for uncertain times ahead.

"Little had been offered to support small and medium businesses, which form the backbone of regional economies," Mr Northe said.

"Our hospital, which has been backed into a corner in the past to secure required funds to meet growing demand and today launched a community appeal to raise money for much needed theatre equipment, appears to have been overlooked for a key funding boost which is extremely disappointing.

"Local schools desperate for maintenance funds have all been overlooked in three major state government programs. Morwell Park PS however was fortunate enough to have their begging bowl filled with presumably federal monies to upgrade their library."

Mr Northe welcomed the $1 million allocation towards the Gippsland Region Infrastructure Development, for the identification of road, rail and port infrastructure needed to support industrial growth.

"Both Yinnar and Traralgon West CFAs will receive a heavy tanker and the local VICSES will receive a new rescue boat; due recognition of the vital role these organisations have in protecting our communities," the Morwell MP said.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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