Tim McCurdy – Buyback fightback needed as uncertainty looms
Friday 19 July 2024
Water buybacks are a slap in the face to all northern Victorian irrigators and producers and the Allan Labor Government must not be a spectator as the damage unfolds.
As the Federal Government forges ahead with buybacks, Victorian Water Minister, Harriet Shing, is well aware of the devastating impact buybacks will have on the community.
Ms Shing claims to oppose environmental buybacks, but is yet to confirm if she will stand in the way of the latest buybacks and give farmers peace of mind.
As a result, Victorians are facing another year of uncertainty.
Shadow Minster for Water, Tim McCurdy, emphasised that it was important Minister Shing ensures any buybacks are managed, and not just from “any willing seller”.
“We know that many ‘willing sellers’ do not actually want to sell but it’s easier than selling off the back paddock,” Mr McCurdy said.
“That is why it is important that the Minister has the courage to step in and ensure we do not destroy entire water districts due to Federal Labor’s incompetence.”
“It’s about time that Labor stopped playing with people’s livelihoods and started getting serious about our long-term future.”
Mr McCurdy said that any water sold from Victoria will hurt locals and communities.
“Whilst I respect the decision of individuals, it is important to highlight that every drop of water ‘bought back’ will be another job lost, and another family left struggling,” Mr McCurdy said.
“Federal Labor has torn up the agreement for no negative impacts to local communities.
“They are pushing ahead with a reckless plan to buy water from anywhere they can, regardless of the science and impact.
“Labor can’t manage our water resources and Victorians are paying the price.”