Gail Gago slams government due to Farm Finance Package cuts

1344
Image credit: morgueFile User: eyecatch7

Agriculture, Food and Fisheries Minister Gail Gago slammed the Federal Agriculture Minister following yesterday’s announcement of cuts to the Farm Finance Package for South Australia, according to the latest media release.

Image credit: morgueFile User: eyecatch7
Image credit: morgueFile User: eyecatch7

According to Ms. Gago, the decision to cut funds shows the disdain with which the coalition holds the issues facing the State’s farming community.

“It’s yet another demonstration of the lack of concern that the Abbott Government has for South Australia, its industries and workers,” Ms. Gago said.

She also accused the opposition of trying to hide the cuts, and even to present them as “assistance”.

“They announced what was in fact a cut to the Farm Finance Package as “extra assistance” which just portrays perfectly the cynicism with which the Abbott Government operates.”

Adertisement

“What’s more, the State Liberals say they are supporters of our agricultural sector, yet when it matters most to our State’s farmers they are nowhere to be seen.“

“Time and time again Mr. Marshall has been unwilling to stand up to the Federal Coalition Government.”

“In fact, and in lockstep with Canberra, last week in State Parliament the Opposition didn’t support expanding the terms of reference of the Environment, Resources and Development Committee to include primary producers.”

“When it came to the crunch, they squabbled it – they voted against having any clear primary industry committee reference.”

“Instead of having a standing committee look at primary industry matters, the Opposition talked of some future committee reform. They are leaving farmers high and dry and it’s a disgrace.”

“Mr. Marshall has been all too willing to defer to leadership-by-committee and watch Holden workers suffer; will he now approve the Abbott Government ripping millions from our State’s allocation of support for our farmers?”

Mr. Gago accused the State opposition for focusing on their self-interests, rather than on the Sate’s wellbeing.

“If Mr. Marshall really cared about the ongoing financial resilience of farm businesses, he would pick up the phone to Mr. Joyce and demand a fair share of these funds for South Australian farmers.”