NSW Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman has hit back at statements made by federal member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain about the NSW government's handling of the water quality issues in Yass.
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Mrs Tuckerman said she was disappointed by Ms McBain's statements but has suggested the member could help secure federal funding to assist the town's water woes.
"Political posturing will not get the job done," she said.
"But a commitment of federal funding just might - something I'm sure Council will be lobbying for."
"It is the state government that is proactively working with the Yass Valley Council to progress the solution for palatable drinking water.
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Ms McBain criticised the NSW's state government's position on Yass water in parliament last Wednesday.
She specifically criticised a decision to spend $2 million on upgrading an existing water treatment plant, described as a "short-term fix", rather than pushing ahead with the Yass Valley Council's preferred solution: a $31.2 million new water treatment plant.
The development of a water treatment plant is now at stage two of a three-stage plan to fix the town's water.
Discussions about going forward with a new water treatment plant have been delayed to 2022 with council and the NSW Department of Planning Industry and Environment to reconvene after council develops a business case for the development.
"It is an insult that the Liberal National government in NSW is spending 2021 crunching the numbers asking themselves 'Is Yass worth it?'," she said in parliament last week
"My answer every time is 'Yes'."
Yass residents say they have spent thousands of dollars a year on bottled water to avoid drinking discoloured and foul smelling tap water, with some residents fearful of bathing in the water.
- The story 'Political posturing will not get the job done' first appeared in The Canberra Times.
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Julia Kanapathippillai
I like writing fascinating stories about Canberra. If you have a tip or a story email julia.k@austcommunitymedia.com.au
I like writing fascinating stories about Canberra. If you have a tip or a story email julia.k@austcommunitymedia.com.au
