Media Releases, November 2007
For previous releases, click here
Public Libraries Demand More Funding
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has joined protestors from libraries and councils across the state on the streets outside Parliament House, in Sydney, to lend his support for more funding to this vital community service.
“Half the community are Public Library members, with some thirty three million visits a year,” Mr Draper said.
“Funding is provided by both local and the state government and it is a disgrace that in comparison with other states NSW provides the lowest funding in the nation,” he said.
“A local librarian told me that their calls for decent funding are falling on deaf ears thus the usually quiet fonts of information have been forced to the streets to highlight their dilemma,” he continued.
Mr Draper pointed out the importance of libraries to students, researchers, our seniors, culturally diverse groups and the disadvantaged.
“A wide range of people have told me what an important part their library plays in their lives and in a vibrant democracy they should be provided with the funding to deliver a first class service,” Mr Draper said.
“The NSW Government should hang their head in shame after cutting more than a million dollars from library budgets this year on top of similar cuts last year,” he said.
“At risk are story times, home delivery, English courses, internet access, study opportunities, opening hours, access to new books, in fact the wide gambit of services they provide,” he continued.
Mr Draper said the NSW Opposition certainly have more vision on this issue than the Government, and he supported their policy to increase funding by 21% a year, over four years.
“A librarian told me that making libraries user pay would be the final insult to taxpayers, and the feedback I’m receiving from the general public indicates this sentiment is widespread,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: NSW Independents Peter Draper (Tamworth), Richard Torbay (Northern Tablelands) and Dawn Fardell (Dubbo) lend their support to protesting librarians outside the NSW Parliament.
Draper Pursues GM Crop Ban Extension
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has been active in the New South Wales Parliament, in a further bid to convince Primary Industries Minister, Ian Macdonald, to reconsider lifting a ban that prevents the planting of GM Canola crops in this State.
“The Government should extend the GM crop moratorium for another five years to properly canvas public opinion and ensure that this technology does not contaminate our environment and economy into eternity,” Mr Draper said.
While highlighting that the Government’s decision to end the moratorium will jeopardise Australia’s grain export and domestic food industries, Mr Draper pointed out that Japan, China and the European Union are already moving to remove GE components from consumer products, and the United States had already lost a $300 million maize export while Canada had lost a similar canola market.
“NSW would be crazy to risk our clean green reputation until we see the wash up for American and Canadian farmers, especially when non GM Australian canola can attract over $60 per tonne premium,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper advised the Parliament that since the Government’s decision to lift the moratorium on GM Canola, Australia’s largest lamb exporter Tatiara Meats had expressed concern the decision would significantly damage their business.
“Goodman Fielder and Coles Myer have both indicated that they don’t want GM products following consultation with their customers, while Australia’s largest producer of natural foods has also confirmed their customers oppose genetic manipulation of food,” he said.
“There are tests that have indicated GM products are more dangerous to children, and pregnant mothers may endanger their unborn child if they consume them,” Mr Draper said.
“Until we get a positive answer one way or another on such a disturbing possibility, the ban needs to be extended,” he continued.
“I am not saying this technology may not one day be deemed totally safe, but until there is scientific proof of its safety, and the repercussions for our exports and the environment are clearly understood, common sense says we must act with caution and maintain the ban,” Mr Draper concluded.
Regions TAFE Colleges Get Funding Injection
Thursday, November 29, 2007
TAFE Colleges in the New England and North West region will share in a $23 million state-wide minor capital works funding program to improve NSW skills training, the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
Mr Draper said almost $1 million would be spent across the region to ensure students have the best possible facilities to prepare them for the workforce.
“This year in NSW, $86 million will be spent on TAFE college upgrades and a further $35.9 million on maintenance,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper welcomed advice that the following upgrades worth $970,000 million will take place:
- Refurbishment of existing facilities in Block M for the establishment of an online computer based teaching facility for Auto Electronics at Tamworth TAFE College; and;
- A redevelopment of Building J at Moree TAFE College.
Mr Draper said existing TAFE works in New England worth $1.64 million were continuing at:
- The new Australian Equine and Livestock Centre, refurbishment of Open Learning Access Centre, and a stormwater reuse project at Tamworth TAFE College, and
- Improved access for students with disabilities at Armidale TAFE College.
“NSW is successfully responding to the skills shortage, leading the growth in apprenticeships and traineeships,” he said.
“An independent report by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research shows our State is training the nation, with 84 per cent of the national growth in apprenticeship and traineeship commencements between 2005 and 2006 occurring in NSW.
“Last year, over 76,000 people began an apprenticeship or traineeship in NSW, an increase of more than five percent.
“And this region sets the pace in providing school based apprenticeships and traineeships, contributing a large proportion of the national growth in this sector.
“TAFE is the nation’s premier training provider, and its future look very bright with more than $2 billion to be spent over the next 4 years delivering the largest public education and training capital works program ever undertaken in NSW,” Mr Draper said.
Governments Underestimate Public Concern On GM Issue
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, believes both the New South Wales and Victorian Governments have underestimated the level of public concern, in announcing their intentions to lift the ban on genetically modified canola crops and will face a backlash as a result.
Mr Draper addressed the NSW Parliament last night and called for a five-year extension on the ban to allow further research on the issue.
“The introduction of the cane toad is a perfect example of what can go wrong if we don’t have the facts right and the GM time bomb may well in years to come prove to be a much larger economic and environmental disaster,” Mr Draper said.
“A poll by The Land newspaper found that just over 50% of farmers don’t think GM grain crops should be grown in Australia, 20% were unsure and just 27.6% were in favour,” he said.
“It makes you wonder if the National Farmers Federation, in supporting the introduction of GM crops, is working on behalf of its members or the multi national interests that have lobbied so hard to have the ban lifted,” he continued.
Mr Draper said that South Australian farmer and MP Ian Gilfillan had hit the nail on the head when he said ‘NSW is the first domino to fall. Canola has proved physically impossible to segregate. In three to four years, it will be impossible to market genetically engineered-free product. This is a point of no return.’
He pointed out that the secretary of the Australian Grain Harvesters Association, Mick Crowe, was quoted as saying he was “shattered” that governments had lifted the moratorium without giving his members the legal protection from court action over contamination that they had requested.
“Not only are there many concerns within rural industries over the dropping of these bans, the general public has legitimate worries as well,” Mr Draper said.
“A representative of Coles Supermarkets recently told a Victorian Parliamentary forum on the issue that ‘Coles listens to our customers and over 90% do not want GM ingredients in their food’,” he said.
“GM contamination could well turn out to be like nuclear waste, a millstone we leave for future generations to pay the price. An extension of the ban by five years to allow further research is essential to ensure we don’t let another genie out of the bottle,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Draper Urges Rethink On Plan to Lift GM Canola Ban
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
“There is a lot of contradictory information regarding the side effects of Genetically Modified (GM) crops and food," the Member for Tamworth Peter Draper said today.
"Possible impacts on the environment, health and economy means that the NSW Government should reconsider it’s plan to lift the ban on GM canola until much more research is carried out,” he said.
“The New South Wales Government, has an obligation to consumers, farmers, the organic food industry, our clean green image, and our export markets, to continue the ban on GM food crops,” he said.
“There are many issues that need to be resolved both from a research perspective and also in policy development before we should risk our position as a net exporter of food to world markets,” he continued.
Mr Draper said public attitudes to genetically engineered foods are now universally negative. Japan, China and the European Union are in fact removing GM components from consumer products. This has led to Australian canola selling at a premium price, because of its GM free status, while at the same time countries like Canada, the US and Argentina, which have embraced GM crops, have seen their markets seriously damaged.
“Do we want to follow blindly in the footsteps of the Canadians and U.S.?” Mr Draper asked.
“Widespread contamination of North American non GM crops resulted in the U.S. losing its $US300 million annual export market of maize, plus Canada lost its $US300 million export market for canola. There are claims that in total GM crops may have cost the U.S. economy at least $US12 billion net from 1999 to 2001 alone. The U.S. and Canadian National Farmers Unions, American Corn Growers Association, Canadian Wheat Board, organic farming groups and more than 200 other groups are lobbying for a ban on the proposed introduction of GM wheat. We must ensure we protect our national interests and learn from these lessons overseas,” he said.
In urging an extension to the current ban Mr Draper said, “Should GM technology be introduced, farmers will be forced to bear the majority of risks and costs associated with this move. ABARE (the Australian Bureau of Resource Economics) has estimated that segregation costs associated with the introduction of GM canola would cost non GM farmers between 5 and 15% of the farm gate value of their crop and non-GM farmers would also be forced to bear the inevitable contamination costs. A West Australian standing committee inquiry concluded that contamination of non-GM crops by GM crops is inevitable, segregation is not practical and that identity preservation may be achieved, but only at significant cost. The same committee recommended that the non GM market should not be sacrificed at the expense of the GM market, while the West Australian wheat board noted the introduction of GM wheat in Australia could jeopardize most of our existing export markets.
“We need to learn from these lessons and ensure we protect our farmers, the environment, consumers and Australia’s clean green image, so the ban on GM food crops must be extended for at least five more years to allow more extensive studies to take place,” Mr Draper concluded.
Windsor Victory Safeguard for New England
Sunday, November 25, 2007
State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has congratulated Federal Independent Tony Windsor on his comprehensive victory in the seat of New England, at the 2008 election.
“Tony already had one of the biggest margins in Australia and with an increase of over 7% on his vote, the people of New England have sent a clear message of support for his ongoing representation,” Mr Draper said.
“With the Labor Party taking control of the government benches, and the National Party ranks further eroded, Tony’s voice of reason for rural and regional Australia will take on even greater significance in the new parliament,” he said.
Mr Draper said that Kevin Rudd and the Labor Party had been given a clear mandate by the Australian people who now expected them to invest in our health system, the environment and climate change, skills training, infrastructure and reconciliation, and to heal the divisions that have crept into Australian society over recent years.
“Most importantly, with Labor governments holding office in all states and territories, and now a federal administration in Canberra, the Australian people have an expectation they grasp this once in a lifetime opportunity to end the Federal/State blame game and develop working relationships that end waste and duplication and efficiently provide the services the electorate demands,” Mr Draper said.
“There are many important issues that face both our region and the nation as a whole, and I look forward to playing my part in the state parliament to compliment Tony Windsor’s federal efforts to gain the best outcomes for the people of New England and the North West," Mr Draper concluded.
Skinner’s Research Skills Are Still Appalling
Friday, November 23, 2007
Shadow Health spokesperson Jillian Skinner should employ a skilled researcher to provide her with correct information before sending out her next media release about health delivery in Tamworth according to the local independent MP, Peter Draper.
Describing Mrs Skinner’s latest release as “yet another misleading rant”, Mr Draper said that the Shadow Minister had an appalling record of inaccuracy over the past 4 years.
“It doesn’t matter which portfolio is allocated to Mrs Skinner, she seems content to spread outdated and inaccurate information through the media in a desperate search for headlines, without considering the damage her inaccuracies inflict upon our community,” Mr Draper said.
“Following her last smear and fear campaign against local teachers when she was Education spokesperson, Mrs Skinner is again guilty of extremely poor research in her attempts to belittle the hardworking medical staff at the Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital,” Mr Draper said.
Mrs Skinner’s latest misinformation has been completely rejected by Hunter New England Health Director of Acute Operations Michael Dirienzo, who stated that her figures were incorrect, with 286 patients not seen within benchmark triage times from 3,587 attendances in September. Mrs Skinner had alleged that 1,031 patients waited longer than the benchmarked time.
“Mrs Skinner’s ongoing fear campaigns are destroying staff morale and giving local users of the service an untrue impression that the hospital is not living up to expectations,” Mr Draper said.
“Perhaps Mrs Skinner is unaware of how much work has gone into increasing staff numbers to improve health care at the Tamworth hospital, with new appointments this year in Nephrology, Palliative Care, Surgery, Pathology, Clinical Governance, plus 8 new Interns (PGY1), 9 new RMO’s (PGY2), 2 new Registrars, 7 new GP trainees, 2 new obstetricians, and two new Staff Specialists in Critical Care. A further 8 new interns will start in January 2008,” Mr Draper said.
“Also, with another 13 junior staff plus 5 senior staff in the fields of Paediatrics, Gastroenterology, Vascular Surgery and Anaesthetics to start next year, I would recommend Mrs Skinner begin telling the truth in her media releases, instead of making life a misery for these dedicated and hardworking health professionals,” he concluded.
Efficiency of Irrigation Water Use Improves
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has welcomed findings by NSW Auditor General, Peter Achterstraat, that programmes, developed by the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI), to assist farmers adopt on-farm improvements in irrigation water use are showing positive results.
“Considering the calls for us all to be water wise, and the fact that around three quarters of the water used in NSW is for irrigation, there is obviously scope for great savings through these programmes,” Mr Draper said.
“The DPI has a clear role to help farmers improve their water use and cope with drought and climate change,” he said.
Mr Draper said the key findings in the Auditor- General’s report were DPI has helped farmers to improve their use of irrigation water. While some of the improvements in water use have been impressive, the momentum has slowed since 2005. Compounding this is the prolonged drought, which continues to reduce available water.
“To achieve these improvements, DPI has developed close partnerships with industry research organizations and community bodies to identify opportunities and attract investment in research and development projects,” Mr Draper said.
Some examples of this include:
- Helping farmers to adopt drip irrigation
- Developing soil surveying techniques to reduce water lost through leaky soils
- Developing better ways to measure the moisture content of soils so farmers can give crops the right amount of water at the right time
DPI programmes have also helped reduce stream and ground water salinity and increased community capacity to respond to future challenges of drought and climate change.
“Due to these efforts the cotton industries top growers have doubled the efficiency of their water use in the last five years,” Mr Draper said.
“It is disappointing, that although the DPI has run a number of courses for farmers on these initiatives, about 7,000, or over half the states irrigators, have not participated. There are obvious savings, both in water and cost to be had, and I would encourage participation,” he said.
“I endorse the Auditor General’s findings that DPI needs to work more closely with the Department of Water and Energy and the Department of Education to ensure they contribute to improving on-farm water use, and the need for DPI to work with NSW Treasury to secure the necessary resources to achieve their commitments under the State Plan,” Mr Draper concluded.
Good Sports Recognised For Representing State
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has acknowledged the achievement of four young Tamworth hockey players.
Mr Draper presented Sam Liles and brothers Alex and Tim McKenzie with State Representative Certificates for gaining selection and playing with the NSW PSSA Boys Hockey Team at the 2007 School Sport Australia Hockey Exchange held in Adelaide during August.
Jake Hathway was presented with his State Representative Certificate for representing NSW in the Under 15 Boys State Hockey Team at the 2007 Hockey Australia Under 15 National Championships held during October.
“These young sportsmen have not only managed to reach a level of excellence within our local competitions, they have been selected as the best to represent NSW, and that is a great honour,” Mr Draper said.
“To reach this standard takes a great deal of dedication. As well as the competition there is a lot of travel involved and we must also pay tribute to the coaches, clubs and parents who help facilitate the success,” he said.
“I congratulate Sam, Alex, Tim and Jake on achieving state representation and wish them every success in their future sporting endeavours,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Peter Draper MP with Jake Hathway, Tim McKenzie, Sam Liles and Alex McKenzie.
Health Boards, or Front Line Health Services?
Monday, November 19, 2007
Revelations in the Sydney media today that States could face an annual bill of between $377.5 million and $1.2 billion to pay for the Coalition’s 7550 new local hospital board members, would see far less money available for front line health services,” according to Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
“Suggestions the money would have to come from budgets for frontline health services confirm my long held view that while the move may have some grass roots appeal, it would reduce funds for the front line provision of services in the long term,” Mr Draper said.
“Every local candidate contesting the current Federal campaign has recognised health as a major issue, yet both sides of politics continue to push policies aimed at buying votes in marginal electorates without considering how to best address the national health crisis,” he said.
“Over recent years, the Federal Government has reduced their commitment to health by some $1 billion per annum, so the suggestion that health boards could remove another $1.2 billion from frontline services is beyond comprehension,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper said that he had long held views that health services needed a substantial injection of funds to address both infrastructure shortfalls and staffing levels, so this required much better federal/state cooperation.
“Until state and federal governments put aside their ideological differences and establish a workable framework for health provision, the system will continue to fail, with patients the losers in the game of political one up man ship,” Mr Draper said.
“Neither side have convinced me they have the will or the plans to overcome the current health crisis, and with an aging population there can only be increased stresses in the years to come,” he said.
“It would be irresponsible to allow another layer of bureaucracy to divert much needed funding away from our front line health services,” Mr Draper concluded.
Improve Respect and Responsibility to Defeat Anti-Social Conduct
Monday, November 19, 2007
“Personal respect and responsibility seems to be less evident than in previous generations, and the issue needs to be addressed to improve a lowering of social standards in many communities,” the Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has told State Parliament.
Mr Draper told the Parliament that country policing faces unique challenges, and the Police Service could benefit from the appointment of a Deputy Commissioner to the executive so country LACs can receive equal attention in their push for adequate resources. He also queried whether the Police Service had ever undertaken a review of the front-line operational needs for country commands.
“If a review has been completed, what are the findings and recommendations?” Mr Draper asked.
“Every individual must accept responsibility for their actions. As a responsible society we must understand that socio-economic differences means some people need more support than others, but we must draw a line in the sand when individuals overstep the mark, forcing them to face up to their responsibilities,” he said.
“Vandalism of War Memorials at Tambar Springs and Mullaley are an example, so too sexual and domestic violence or alcohol fuelled anti-social behaviour, where-ever it occurs across the district,” Mr Draper said.
“Some community members are concerned about recent law changes that allow police to issue on-the-spot fines for offences that many would regard as antisocial behaviour. While there are benefits in freeing up police resources from paper work and court attendances, there is no point handing out fines to habitual offenders, so there must be a limit to the number of such infringements issued before the offender has to face more serious consequences through the judicial process,” he said.
Mr Draper told Parliament that funding of late night public transport could, over time, save millions lost as a result of violence and vandalism, while at the same time freeing up police resources.
“A recently funded late night transport initiative in Gunnedah proves there is a need to consider such programs for all our communities,” he said.
“Our police officers are not social workers, so the Police service must be adequately supported by other agencies to deal with these social and economic difficulties,” he continued.
“Unacceptable levels of domestic violence can often see police returning to an incident, yet many LACs do not have a domestic violence officer. Adequate funding and resources must be provided to improve respect and responsibility needed to deliver the peaceful and safe communities that we deserve,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Comment Sought On Residential Tenancy Law Reform
Monday, November 19, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, is urging residents to be aware that the New South Wales Government has released the Residential Tenancy Law Reform Report – A New Direction and is encouraging public consultation and comment.
“This report sets out more than 100 proposed reforms to residential tenancies legislation in NSW,” Mr Draper said.
“More than half of the State’s population own or live in a rental property so these proposals affect a lot of our community,” he said.
Mr Draper said the NSW Government had stated its aim to overhaul residential tenancy laws to strike a better balance between the rights and responsibilities of tenants and of landlords.
“The Government is suggesting the proposals will see greater protection for tenants in a number of areas and a more efficient system for landlords,” he said.
Copies of Residential Tenancy Law Reform Report – A New Direction can be downloaded from the Fair Trading website at www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au the site also contains summaries of eight key areas of the proposed reforms and an easy to use on-line feedback facility. Any queries on the proposals should be sent to policy@oft.commerce.nsw.gov.au
“It is important our tenancy laws remain relevant to the changing marketplace and the needs of our community,” Mr Draper said.
“It is equally important the different stakeholders are aware off and provide feedback on this report prior to any changes being legislated,” he continued
“Tenants and their advocacy groups as well as landlords and their organizations have separate interests in the outcomes from these deliberations,” he said.
“Importantly we need to see outcomes that encourage investment and reasonable returns in the rental market while at the same time protecting the rights of tenants from exploitation, so it is vital to strike the right balance,” he said.
“Public participation in the consultation process is the best way to achieve this and I encourage all interested parties to become involved,” Mr Draper concluded.
New England Institute Of TAFE – Helping Beat Skills Shortage – Producing Award Winners
Friday, November 16, 2007
In a speech to the NSW Parliament, the Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has complimented the New England Institute of TAFE for making courses user friendly, and detailed examples of graduates who have gone on to bigger and better things in their chosen vocation.
“There is no doubt the skills shortage in this country is having a negative effect on many industries seeking to replace or increase staff levels. We are very fortunate in our region that New England Institute of TAFE is meeting this crisis head on and turning out highly qualified graduates,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper pointed to the outstanding efforts of Nick Richard who graduated with Certificate III in Hospitality in 2002, and this year became one of the five finalists for the 2007 Young Outback Chef Scholarship as an example.
“Current apprentices and graduates have earned many State and national cookery awards through various industry competitions, including from the New South Wales Restaurant and Caterers Association and Worldskills, plus the prestigious Golden Chef's Hat Award, awarded to Jamie Exman, past executive chef of the Tamworth Powerhouse Hotel. Several former apprentices have come home after years of enhancing their culinary skills and some are involved in teaching at the TAFE campus, where their own training began,” Mr Draper said.
“The Tamworth campus tourism and hospitality unit is the New England Institute's commercial cookery training venue for all cookery apprentices, with students travelling from as far away as Walgett, Tenterfield, plus Scone and Muswellbrook, with 55 commercial cookery apprentices currently enrolled. The qualification is delivered two days per fortnight to meet the growing needs of the region's hospitality industry, reducing the amount of time spent on the road for young apprentices who need to travel long distances.”
Mr Draper told Parliament the Certificate III in hospitality is just one of the areas in which the New England Institute of TAFE is using innovative programs to meet the needs of its students and provide skilled graduates with help to meet the nation's skills crisis.
“In 2007 some 20,500 students undertook New England Institute of TAFE courses, with 8,132 of them at the Tamworth campus, and projections for 2008 indicate a 4 per cent increase on last year's record results. TAFE has 1,200 students now enrolled in 46 E-Learning subjects that benefit rural and remote students in particular, especially the 140 students enrolled for the certificate IV Veterinarian Nursing course. All the students work in clinics, and study on line, allowing their workplace competency to be checked by their supervisors and only requiring three two-day workshops in Tamworth for practical skills,” Mr Draper said
“Committed students, dedicated teaching staff and a TAFE institute that is prepared to try innovative concepts are the right ingredients to develop a well-trained workforce to address the regions workforce skills shortages,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
New flashing lights and boom gates for Robert Street, Tamworth
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, today announced that work has commenced to install new flashing lights and boom gates at the railway level crossing on Robert Street in Tamworth.
“The $898,000 project is fully funded by the State Government as part of the Roads and Traffic Authority’s Level Crossing Safety Improvement Program to improve road and rail safety,” Mr Draper said.
“As part of the work, active pedestrian gates will also be installed on both sides of Robert Street and at the pedestrian rail crossing at Green Street to improve pedestrian safety,” he said.
“In addition pathways and pedestrian fencing will be installed at the nearby Robert Street roundabout. This work will improve road safety for both pedestrians and motorists in the area by actively controlling rail, vehicle and pedestrian movements,” Mr Draper said.
The work is being undertaken by the Tamworth Regional Council and Australian Rail Track Corporation and is expected to be completed by the end of December 2007, weather permitting.
Mr Draper has been a strong proponent for upgrades to level crossings across the region.
“I’m pleased to see this investment in one of Tamworth’s busiest rail crossings. It is the main entry/exit point for Coledale, and this will improve safety not only for motorists, but also for pedestrians, and particularly the many young people who utilize it,” Mr Draper concluded.
Government Fails to Adequately Protect War Memorials
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has condemned the New South Wales State Government for failing to support adequate penalties should people be found guilty of desecrating War Memorials.
Mr Draper’s comments follow the vote in the NSW Legislative Assembly on the War Memorial Legislation Amendment (Increased Penalties) Bill 2007.
“Following a number of cowardly vandal attacks on War Memorials locally at Tambar Springs and Mullaley and also in other locations around the State, the New South Wales Government introduced this legislation to increase penalties for this offence from $2,200 to $4,400,” Mr Draper said.
“To put things in perspective, the fine for desecrating an Aboriginal sacred site is $11,000 yet the Government proposed to increase fines for a similar offence against War Memorials to less than half this amount,” he said.
“I think most fair minded citizens would consider an attack on either of these important cultural sites with equal disgust and expect equally tough penalties to be imposed,” he continued.
“Only two weeks ago I informed the House of our regions relationship with the 90th Anniversary of the Light Horse charge at Beersheba through the 12/16th Hunter River Lancers, and during that address I highlighted the many Tamworth War Memorials that honour the many Australians who have served our nation. I detailed how proud our community is of the18 separate War Memorials in Tamworth, and the dedicated individuals and groups who maintain them,” Mr Draper said.
“With this in mind, I supported an amendment by the Opposition to increase penalties for desecrating War Memorials to $11,000, which would make this crime commensurate with a similar offence to an Aboriginal site,” he said.
“I was bitterly disappointed that the Government used their numbers to defeat this amendment,” he said.
“This decision by the Government is a slight on the fallen, our veterans, their relatives and the organizations that lovingly care for these memorials, and I will continue to lobby for the strongest possible penalties for “low life” who perpetrate such disgusting actions,” Mr Draper concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Exciting Concept In Indigenous Education
Thursday, November 15, 2007
“An exciting concept with huge potential,” is how Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has described a programme in Indigenous Education being run through the University of New South Wales (UNSW).
“Nura Gili is the Indigenous Centre at UNSW which has been set up to help young Indigenous people access university education,” he said.
Mr Draper has written to all High School principals across the district to make them aware of the programme, and to encourage them nominate possible participants.
He has told the principals about the three main arms of the programme:
- UNSW Indigenous Winter School (1 week for Year 10, 11 and 12 students). This gives students the opportunity to visit UNSW and experience courses and campus life. The Winter School is held during the July term break
- UNSW Indigenous Pre-Programmes A month long residential programme held over November/December. This is designed for students who are considering university studies and/or seeking entry to university the following year. It gives them an opportunity to gain some early credits, and to orientate themselves before the large numbers of students arrive the following year.
- Two Enabling Skills programmes These are 12-month courses designed to equip students to be academically ready to enter their chosen faculty the following year. These programmes are at Diploma level. The Diploma in Engineering, Science and Technology will commence in 2008; applications are being taken now. The Diploma in Humanities is in the developmental stage and it is planned that it will include areas within the Humanities, Law and Visual Arts and will commence in 2009.
“There are also other supports for indigenous students run through Nura Gili and the mainstream UNSW system, including residential scholarships for Indigenous medical students offered through Shalom College. These are fully funded by an indigenous artist programme,” Mr Draper said.
“UNSW currently has 150 indigenous students and they have strategies in place to increase this to at least 500 over the next few years,” he said.
“I am confident that this programme will open doorways for indigenous youth, increase the availability of university places for them and help overcome barriers that have inhibited their chances to further their education,” he continued.
“I encourage students or parents who would like further information on these courses to contact my office and we will put them in touch with the relevant authority,” Mr Draper concluded.
Tickets Available For Premier’s Seniors Gala Christmas Concert
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
The NSW Premier’s Gala Christmas Concerts for Seniors will be held at the Sydney Entertainment Centre at 10.30am and 2.30pm on Wednesday 5th December 2007.
“I have tickets available, through my office, to individuals or groups who may like to attend one of these great shows,” said Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
“The theme for this years concerts is What’s In Store For Christmas,” he said.
“Many seniors have told me how much they enjoy and appreciate the Gala Christmas Concerts, they always have a great line up,” he continued.
“I encourage any seniors who can make their way to Sydney for these concerts to contact my office on 6766 1422. I’m sure they’ll enjoy themselves,” Mr Draper concluded.
Draper Welcomes Positive News on Water Initiatives
Monday, November 12, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has welcomed movement by the NSW Government to address two important issues for local water users.
“I am pleased that offers to irrigators that provide compensation for the water allocation cuts are finally in place, and I encourage farmers seeking this compensation to return their deeds of agreement as soon as practicable,” Mr Draper said.
“This process has taken far to long, but with the Federal Government finally deciding not to tax these payments, the money will now be provided to irrigators,” he said.
“Many of these farmers have been facing hard times, so hopefully the funding packages will allow them some relief,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper also welcomed news that Minister for Water, Phil Koperberg, had initiated discussions with Tamworth Regional Council on a water pipeline from Split Rock Dam to Barraba to provide a reliable water supply for Barraba for the long term.
“Other proposals to overcome Barraba’s water woes have been stop gap measures, so a pipeline is the only solution offering long term security and economic benefits,” Mr Draper said.
“The former Barraba Shire Council drove this agenda for many years, and I hope that Tamworth Regional Council will take the proposal forward following the Ministers letter,” he said.
“Both of these issues have been the subject of much lobbying and correspondence, so although the wheels of government turn slowly, it is pleasing to see movement,” he continued.
“The Rural Cabinet meeting allowed me to raise issues such as these with Ministers, so I am delighted to see such swift action to assist local irrigators,” Mr Draper said.
“Similarly, I took the Split Rock – Barraba pipeline proposal to the Rural Cabinet and also raised this issue in Parliament last week, so I would like to thank Minister Koperberg for progressing these important issues,” Mr Draper concluded.
Invest in Health Services before Tax Cuts
Monday, November 12, 2007
“Instead of tax cuts for short term political gain that would increase inflation and lead to higher interest rates, people are looking for than a long term plan to fix the national health funding crisis,” Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has told the NSW Parliament.
“The Australian Medical Association (AMA) recently released its Public Health Report Card 2007, which said that Australia’s public hospitals were in crisis, needing increased funding, better management and improved Commonwealth-State cooperation,” he said.
“Local people are truly sick of the health blame game. People want action to deliver a properly funded health system that can meet the community's needs and expectations, and they are telling me the tax cuts are not important - they want the health system fixed,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper told Parliament that the community expects both State and Federal Governments to provide appropriate funding so our health professionals can deliver their vital services.
“It has been suggested that by 2037, the entire New South Wales State budget will be required merely to fund the health system, yet despite record Budget surpluses, the Federal Government have cut a billion dollars per year in health funding across the country,” Mr Draper said.
“Next year medical students will start training at the UNE in Armidale, and despite promises from Premier Morris Iemma to redevelop the hospital in Tamworth, many constituents are worried that high profile heath problems in Sydney will attract funds, possibly delaying this project,” he continued.
Mr Draper told the Parliament a report by Tony McMichael from the ANU indicating that climate change and an aging population will also increase pressure on the system. According to the report, the number of people in Australia aged over 65 years is expected to rise from 13½ per cent of the population to 23 per cent over the next 30 years, including 1.1 million aged 85 years and over.
He said that problems in the health system became exponentially worse in rural and regional areas. He also pointed out that Federal governments of both persuasions had not funded sufficient training places for new doctors, not only failing to train our own kids to fill these roles, but forcing Australia to plunder overseas countries' limited medical resources to meet local needs.
“A government scheme to attract young doctors to rural areas has failed, with less than half the funds available spent during the 2006-07 year. Doctors working in rural and remote areas can claim back one fifth of their HECS fees for each year of service in these areas, but just $2.7m of the $5.95m were claimed. Health is the major issue, and people want appropriate funding and staffing, not tax cuts,” he concluded.
Click here for Hansard.
Draper Gets Answers On Water Entitlement Compensation Timetable In State Parliament Despite Nationals Attempt To Abandon Farmers
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Today in the NSW Parliament, the State MP for Tamworth, Peter Draper, has raised the plight of farmers who are desperate for compensation, following cuts to their water entitlements. Despite an attempt by National Party Leader of the House Adrian Piccoli to prevent Mr Drapers question being answered, the Tamworth MP was able to question Minister for Climate Change and Water, Phil Koperberg, on behalf of local farmers.
“I was astounded that Mr Piccoli attempted to have the Speaker deny my right to ask this urgent question, as surely he too has farmers desperate to receive their compensation packages,” Mr Draper said.
“Minister Koperberg said that he too was surprised that the Nationals were not interested in this important issue, but considering the Federal Coalition’s attempts to tax these compensation payments, serious questions must be asked about their commitment to the farming sector,” Mr Draper said.
In Question Time today Mr Draper asked Minister Koperberg:
“Following gazettal of the NSW water sharing plans, many farmers have made commitments to banks based upon the compensation due to cuts in their water entitlements. After your recent discussions with affected farmers in Tamworth, can you advise the House when these farmers can expect to receive their money from the State Government.”
“The drought has meant that many farmers have had limited income for a number of years and are finding it increasingly difficult to meet their financial commitments,” Mr Draper said.
“Many have had to survive with nil or severely reduced allocations for a long period of time which impacts negatively on their ability to generate income, so the Government must realize these monies are desperately needed now, just to keep operations afloat and the wolf from the door,” he continued.
“Under more reasonable seasonal conditions farmers may have been able to juggle their commitments, however things are so tough for many of them, that they really needed the money yesterday, and any further delays could literally see people forced from their properties,” he said.
In reply to Mr Draper’s question, Mr Koperberg told the House, that today cheques had been sent to several farmers who had shown financial hardship, and that payments could commence to others as soon as their deeds of agreement had been lodged with his department.
“I urge farmers to lodge those deeds as quickly as possible and if they face any problems then please contact my office,” Mr Draper said.
Following Minister Koperberg’s recent meetings with farmers in Tamworth, he has advised Mr Draper that he will return to the Tamworth electorate on the 11th and 12th December. He will spend both days meeting farmers and interest groups, including on site inspections of local concerns at Kootingal, Kelvin and Maules Creek.
“Water is a critical issue for farming communities, and I applaud the Ministers decision to meet farmers directly affected by cuts to their water allocations on their properties so he can get a personal understanding of the challenges they face,” Mr Draper said.
“I thank Minister Koperberg for committing to work through these issues and hope that he will find his time with local farmers a positive learning experience,” Mr Draper concluded.
Beware of Scam
Monday, November 5, 2007
Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, is warning residents to beware of an apparent mail scam involving notification of unclaimed prizes from the International Award Payment Centre, Kansas City USA.
“I sometimes think there’s somebody around every corner trying to swindle honest hard working people,” Mr Draper said.
“The scam letter suggests that by completing a form, correctly answering a procedural question and sending $20 to a Kansas City address the person concerned may be declared the winner of a considerable amount of cash,” he said.
“A number of these official looking letters have turned up in the electorate offering amounts between $5,000 and $45,000,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper has forwarded concerns about this scam to NSW Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney, for further action.
“We’ve seen scams from Nigeria and The Middle East in the past and it is concerning that an operation like this is from the United States, which may perhaps seem safer to honest, unsuspecting people,” Mr Draper said.
“Anyone who receives such unsolicited material in the post or by email should throw it in the bin,” he said.
Mr Draper said that he welcomed residents bringing such schemes to his attention, so that he could forward details to The Office of Fair Trading.
“There seems to be a new scheme popping up every day, and it is important that Fair Trading can monitor such scams and warn residents of the potential threat, Mr Draper said.
“If these shysters sent out 100,000 letters and only 1% sent them $20 they make $20,000 through a rort,” he said.
“One of the best pieces of advice I’ve heard is if it sounds to good to be true, it probably is. If you keep this in mind when such offers arrive you’ll be looking after your interests,” Mr Draper concluded.
Water Conservation a Matter For Local Pride
Thursday, November 1, 2007
“I’m sure the people of our region could teach the major political parties a thing or two about water conservation and the environment, so their efforts in this area are to be commended,” according to Independent Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper.
Mr Draper, who has been a long time advocate for water tank rebates, was commenting on a statement from NSW Minister for Climate Change, Environment and Water, Phil Koperberg, that Tamworth was the water tank heartland of the state.
“Minister Koperberg told me that this district has processed one water tank rebate every thirty six hours since the programme was reinstituted in July, with residents from Tamworth, Gunnedah, Barraba, Manilla and other smaller centre’s also taking advantage of the rebates,” Mr Draper said.
“What’s more, local people are also availing themselves of rebates for other energy efficiency initiatives including solar energy and effective insulation,” he continued.
“We’ve had over 100 applications throughout the region, with half of those from Tamworth, and the Minister was convinced that this uptake justified the programmes continuation into the future,” he said.
Mr Draper said that according to the department’s calculations this investment in water tanks amounted to a saving of five million litres a year, equivalent to:
- 1.5 million toilet flushes (average, using 4 star WELS rating – 3.5litres/ flush)
- 91,000 wash loads (4 star WELS rated machine – 50 litres/load)
- 138,888 showers (4-minute with 9L/min water-efficient showerhead)
“Tamworth residents have used our precious water resources sparingly since the lifting of Level Five restrictions, and Barraba residents too have been conservative with water use. In other centres where restrictions have not been as harsh, people are very aware that water levels are still low with a long hot summer to come,” Mr Draper said.
Mr Draper also recognised Tamworth Regional Council for its programmes aimed at conserving water.
“I urge residents who are thinking about measures to store and conserve water to take advantage of the current rebate programmes, and to join the growing number of people who are contributing to a responsible community response regarding our water challenges,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Peter Draper MP (second from left), Phil Koperberg (NSW Minister for Climate Change, Environment & Water, third from left) with Tania Mills and Scott Woods (Joint A/GM Tamworth Co-operative Limited).
Minister Roozendaal Inspects Manilla Road Inadequacies
Thursday, November 1, 2007
During an on site inspection of Manilla Road with NSW Roads Minister Eric Roozendaal, the Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper has used this opportunity to appraise the Minister of serious concerns expressed by residents and regular users of this major access route for an expanding Tamworth City.
“Not only was the Minister able to view the condition of the present roadway, but I was able to point out the added pressures resulting from the rapid expansion of Tamworth to the west. The Minister is now also aware of the large number of cars and heavy vehicles using this road, plus its important role in the Barraba to Inverell access route and the further north-west link,” Mr Draper said.
“I told Minister Roozendaal that there had been plans to finish this section of the road since the late 1950’s, yet through a succession of governments, state members and Road Ministers, the construction was still to be completed,” he continued.
“Minister Roozendaal gave an undertaking to have the RTA report to him on where they are up to with plans for completing this vital access road to the city,” he said.
Mr Draper said it was important to keep the government focused on this vital local infrastructure, and he would continue to pursue it as an issue of great concern to residents and users of the road alike.
Mr Draper was also able to demonstrate to the Minister the increasing traffic congestion, and highlight the need for better road management at the busy Peel and Tribe Street intersections. He pointed out that a roundabout may provide better access to Manilla Road during peak periods, and requested that the Minister ask the RTA to examine the feasibility of such a proposal.
“Rapidly growing housing and school developments are resulting in extensive traffic delays on this busy and quite dangerous intersection, so remedial work seems necessary, especially to allow access to the road for vehicles wishing to turn right towards Manilla,” Mr Draper said.
“Minister Roozendaal indicated that he will ask the RTA to examine the feasibility of a roundabout at this intersection as a possible solution to the problem,” he said.
“I realise that there is strong competition for roads funding across the state, however Manilla Road has been at the centre of long-standing community concerns for decades, so I believe it deserves serious consideration by the Minister,” Mr Draper concluded.
Photo: Independent State Member for Tamworth, Peter Draper, and NSW Roads Minister, Eric Roozendaal, inspect traffic conditions at the Peel / Tribe Street intersections as part of the on-site visit to Manilla Road.
