Government Failing On Roads And Health

The Territory Government is deceiving Territorians by failing to meet core Government responsibilities on infrastructure by failing to build roads and health facilities.

"These infrastructure needs were election promises made by the Labor Government, which is now failing to meet them,” Jodeen Carney said today.

"The Territory Government has blamed an uncooperative Federal Government for its failure to deliver on these vital projects. But if it wasn't for the CLP Federal Member for Solomon, Dave Tollner, the Territory Government would not have a $13 million contribution from the Federal Government toward an Oncology Unit.

"This is $13 million to fulfil a promise made by Territory Labor in 2001.

"Even though the Territory Government is awash with nearly $1 billion in unexpected GST revenue, it has failed to meet the requirements of the Federal Government in its funding arrangements.

"Considerable funding from the Federal Government is on the table, waiting for Territory Government action - $13 million for Oncology and $13.7 million for Tiger Brennan Drive are just two examples.

"This Government is unbelievable: they give the Federal Government the cost estimates, get the money given to them, and then refuse to undertake the works.

"Not only do they refuse to do the work, they re-do their estimates and blame the Federal Government for their error while Territorians are left to suffer.

"Labor's desire to play 'politics' is directly affecting the lives of cancer sufferers and the residents of Palmerston.

"Territorians are no doubt wondering just what is the commitment this Labor Government has signed them up for in regard to the Waterfront Development,” Ms Carney said.

2006-08-29