2/2/05
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan has drawn attention to the Gallop Government’s ports expansion plan following comments by Federal Trade Minister Mark Vaile, who is touring regional Western Australia.
Mr Vaile says it is crucial to maintain efficiency and competitiveness in WA so that regional ports have the capacity to cope with the State’s booming export market.
The State Government recently unveiled its trade policy, which focuses on strong infrastructure investment in the State’s eight ports and innovative trade strategies to ensure WA’s ongoing prosperity. Over the past four years, the Gallop Government has allocated $420million on strategic investment in its eight port authorities with a further $300million committed over the next four years.
“Mr Vaile is spot on,” Ms MacTiernan said.
“It is just a pity that his actions do not match his rhetoric.
“WA accounts for 50 per cent of Australia’s trade by volume and almost 30 per cent by value.
“Despite the fact that the Federal Government will reap hundreds of millions of dollars from the development of the Burrup Peninsula, they refuse to commit a single cent to upgrading the port or developing the service corridor.
“It is the State Labor Government which is investing $183million in the Burrup, including $90million on the bulk liquids jetty and service corridor at Dampier Port. Mr Vaile says this work is crucial, yet he makes no contribution to such vital projects.”
Minister's office: 9213 6400
