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Regional Victorians still in a state of uncertainty

Government has not made agreements to make Victoria stable.

By news@gippsland - 4th March 2021 - Back to News

Regional Victorians won’t be spared the emotional, social and financial pain of future lockdowns, even if cases are confined to Melbourne. Crossbench MP Fiona Patten, who recently formed a ‘Coalition’ with Mildura MP Ali Cupper, has claimed the Government agreed to make concessions in exchange for support on its nine-month State of Emergency extension, including a ‘traffic light system’ and a "nuanced" approach for regional areas.

Interview with Fiona Patten,Reason Leader and Member for Northern Metropolitan Region for the Victorian Legislative Council

No concession while different rules apply in regional Victoria

Health Minister Martin Foley confirmed in State Parliament today that no concession had been agreed to – despite Ms Cupper telling local media earlier in the day "different rules will be applied in regional Victoria". Leader of The Nationals Peter Walsh said regional families and businesses deserved certainty. "This bizarre ‘he-said-she-said’ only confirms one thing – regional Victorians will be no better off with an extra nine months of Daniel Andrews having the State of Emergency powers," Mr Walsh said.

"Ali Cupper and the Reason Party have sold out regional Victorians and are now trying to pull the wool over our eyes, but the Government has confirmed this dodgy backroom deal will deliver no certainty for country businesses and families." Daniel Andrews will say anything to hold onto power over people’s lives.

Five day lockdown stomped on steps towards recovery

Mr Walsh said, "The five-day lockdown destroyed steps country communities had taken towards recovery, despite the cases being confined to Melbourne. "Victoria has become the state of uncertainty under Daniel Andrews’ policy of snap, statewide lockdowns."

Tourism, accommodation and hospitality businesses recently came together in a letter to the Premier pleading for a targeted approach to lockdowns. "It’s not only the impact lockdowns have on local people with closures of schools and businesses, but it’s also the impact on the visitor economy."

"We’re seeing this uncertainty hold people back from planning a trip in regional Victoria. This is set to continue for nine more months now with nothing to force the government to be transparent or accountable on its spending or decision-making," added Mr. Walsh.

Pictures from Fiona Patten MP Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Darren Chester joined Tim Bull at Metung Primary Footy Colours Day, praising student enthusiasm, community spirit, and schools' vital role in fostering connections, participation, and regional community life through fun events
• Eat Drink Play Gippsland celebrates local flavours, award-winning cheeses, and culinary creations from passionate regional makers
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland showcases top restaurants, award-winning cheeses, and artisanal delights. From snacks to gourmet dishes, the festival celebrates local flavours and passionate makers, offering something delicious for every palate.
• East Gippsland Shire backs $15M Bairnsdale Airport upgrade to boost emergency response and healthcare services regionally
  East Gippsland Shire Council has backed a $15 million Bairnsdale Airport upgrade, extending the runway to boost emergency response, healthcare services, and regional aviation, supported by government funding and health agencies.
• Danny O'Brien congratulates Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds receiving state funding to enhance community facilities
  Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds have received over $43,000 in state funding to upgrade facilities, recognising their vital role in supporting men's wellbeing and community connection.