COMMUNITY DESERVES AN ANSWER ON CMA BOARDS: HALL

Victoria's Catchment Management Authorities are all in 'caretaker mode' because the Bracks Government has failed to announce the appointment of new board members.

The Nationals Spokesman for Natural Resources Peter Hall said the current terms of the board members expired on June 30, 2006 and the Minister for Water had not announced any new boards throughout the state.

"Country Victorians deserve an explanation from the Minister on why his government has botched the appointment of new board members," Mr Hall said.

"This delay effectively means that none of the CMAs in Victoria have any community-based leadership at the moment.

"The whole structure of catchment management in Victoria is based around utilising the skills and experience of local residents to guide decision-making. The government had three years to organise itself but has fallen short of the mark once again."

Mr Hall has also expressed concern that the delays may be a sign of more politically-motivated appointments being made.

"The CMA boards are meant to feature at least 50% of members who have direct agricultural industry involvement and practical experience," Mr Hall said.

"It will be interesting to see whether the Minister meets this requirement when he finally announces the new boards.

"I hope these delays are not an indication that Melbourne Labor is seeking to make politically-motivated appointments and install party sympathisers on the boards ahead of well-credentialled applicants."

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