North-West Minister Ernie Bridge has intervened in a Federal funding row which threatens the jobs of three broadcasting trainees at Waringarri Aboriginal Radio in Kununurra.
Mr Bridge said he was not prepared to stand by while the trainees lost their jobs purely because the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) had failed to provide sufficient training funds for the station.
"I am appalled this matter has been allowed to reach a point where Waringarri Radio yesterday announced plans to lay off the three young trainees at the end of this week," he said.
"Waringarri Radio provides an important service in the North-West, both in terms of community access and information, and also training opportunities. It should be seen as an essential part of our overall effort to provide meaningful skills and training for Aboriginal people."
Mr Bridge said he had advised Waringarri Radio that he would provide emergency interim funding while efforts were made to clarify ATSIC's position.
He discussed the matter yesterday with Federal Aboriginal Affairs Minister Robert Tickner and has written to ATSIC and Federal Communications Minister Bob Collins expressing his concern, and was awaiting their response.
