Alistair Coe, the Shadow Minister for Urban Services, said the Chief Minister was belittling his local government responsibilities by highlighting questions on notice from the TAMS portfolio as a ‘wild fishing expedition’.
“The ACT Government is a fusion of territory and municipal responsibilities and it is disappointing to see the Chief Minister, after declaring himself the “Mayor of Canberra” last year, ignoring and belittling his own local government responsibilities,” Alistair said.
“During my campaign and since being elected, the single most important issue that has been raised with me is the need to get the basics right.
“Canberrans want comfort and amenity at local shopping centres, good quality roads, footpaths repaired, street lights replaced, and buses to run on time.
“Rates, fees, charges, bus fares, and fines are all going up in this budget whilst service standards are slipping – the Canberra community have a right to expect answers.
“When asked about these very issues the Chief Minister cries foul – obviously trying to cover up the failings of his Government.
“I asked a range of questions in relation to ACTION buses, roads, paths, street lighting, parking fees, efficiency dividends, shopping centres, and other topics.
“Despite writing to the Chief Minister on numerous occasions since becoming the Shadow Minister for TAMS, I am yet to receive a briefing on the portfolio. There is little wonder we have a number of questions.
“The Chief Minister should take a reality check and come back down to earth and focus on getting the basics right,” said Alistair.
