GIPPSLAND LAKES SHORT-CHANGED BY MELBOURNE LABOR

A 50% cut in funding for the Gippsland Lakes has been criticised by senior Nationals MPs who have expressed concern about the environmental health of the system.

The Nationals Spokesman for Natural Resources Peter Hall said the Bracks Government's decision to commit $6 million over three years for Gippsland Lakes and catchment projects was a disappointing result for the local community.

It follows previous funding of $12.8 million for the Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Action Plan from 2002-06. With less than half of the previous funding to work with, The Nationals are predicting a decline in catchment activities in the future.

"I believe Gippsland has been short-changed and we're not getting our fair share of the money that is available around the state," Mr Hall said.

"While the commitment for the next three years will allow some work to continue, I am disappointed with the level of funding that Melbourne Labor has provided.

"The Nationals had been calling for $10 million over four years to continue the important nutrient reduction work and other activities funded under the rescue package.

"The government has plenty of money at its disposal and the health of the Gippsland Lakes is vital for the future of our region."

The Nationals Candidate for Gippsland East Chris Nixon has also expressed disappointment with the level of funding provided.

"I would have liked to have seen a longer term commitment and more funding to ensure the good work that has been started in the catchment can continue to deliver benefits in the future," Mr Nixon said.

"The health of the Gippsland Lakes is central to our fishing and tourism industries and the government should be providing more incentives to work with private landholders on nutrient reduction initiatives.

"There also needs to be a stronger commitment to reducing the impact of feral pests like European carp which have a devastating impact on water quality; river bank stability; and fish stocks.

"If there was more funding available, more work could be done to improve the health of the lakes and rivers."

Media contact: Peter Hall (03) 5174 7066