ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS 'ON HOLD' DUE TO LACK OF FUNDING

Uncertainty over the future of funding for the Gippsland Lakes will cause delays in important projects to reduce nutrient flows in the catchment, according to The Nationals Spokesman for Natural Resources Peter Hall.

Mr Hall has also accused the State Government of playing politics with one of Australia's greatest natural icons.

"I'm concerned that the delays are being caused by political motives," Mr Hall said.

"I believe there is money available and knowing the Bracks Government's passion for photo opportunities, we are probably being forced to wait while the Minister works out his diary arrangements.

"The future of the Gippsland Lakes is too important to be put on hold while the Minister for Environment and his staff set up media interviews for some sort of 'grand announcement'.

"The community deserves to know whether or not funding is going to be made available and if important environmental projects can continue over the next four years."

Mr Hall said The Nationals were calling for $10 million over four years to ensure that landholders had access to funds to help address key issues such as nutrient flows into the catchment.

"The government keeps saying it supports the Gippsland Lakes and more funding will be made available but the four-year Gippsland Lakes Rescue Package ran out of money last Friday and there's been no announcement of new funding," Mr Hall said.

"There was nothing in the State Budget and the uncertainty is causing concern among staff and the wider community.

"We need another $10 million over four years to continue the good work that has been started throughout the catchment.

"The Nationals supported the first phase of the program and we are encouraging the Bracks Government to commit to another long-term initiative.

"The environmental challenges facing the Gippsland Lakes will not be addressed in a couple of years. It will take decades of concerted effort to reduce the nutrient flows and landholders have been very supportive by using their own time and money to make improvements.

"The government must commit immediately to the next stage of the program."

Media contact: Peter Hall (03) 5174 7066 or 0427 747 066