2/8/05
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Agriculture and Forestry, the Mid-West and Wheatbelt, Tony McRae, today announced increased funding for wild dog management in the Esperance region.
Mr McRae said funding to the Northern Mallee Declared Species Group through the Department of Agriculture had increased from $10,000 in the previous financial year to $30,000 for 2005-2006, an indication of the State Government’s commitment to deal with the wild dog problem.
Additionally, the South Coast Regional Initiative Planning Team is contributing $20,000 to fight the problem and there is close co-operation with the Department of Conservation and Land Management through financial and in-kind support.
"The State Government has an ongoing commitment to help tackle this problem,” Mr McRae said.
"Last financial year, the State Government spent $1.9million on the wild dog issue and a further $1.6million has been allocated for this financial year - this is an increase from $1.1million under the former government. As well, the number of doggers on the ground has been boosted.
"The nationally accredited dogger training program has been piloted and access has been established to affordable liability insurance for Declared Animal Groups.
“The Gallop Government is protecting and enhancing Western Australia’s unique environment.”
Minister's office: 9213 6700
